Adams Eyes Albany if Mayoral Bid Fails
Adrienne Adams, the NYC Council Chairman, is reportedly considering a move to Albany if her attempt to become mayor doesn’t pan out, according to insider sources. She’s on the short list for the lieutenant governor position under Kathy Hochul’s administration.
Rumors suggest that Adams is gaining traction to use taxpayer money for establishing a fourth council office. “The governor is looking for someone like Adrienne who can win votes while navigating political conflicts,” one insider noted.
Next year, Hochul will be contending with current Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado in the Democratic primary. Additionally, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is also being considered as a possible running mate for Hochul.
Hochul seems especially eager to bolster her support in Queens through either Adams or Richards, targeting both the party’s progressive and moderate bases.
At this point, Richards is seen as her “No. 1 choice” while Adams is considered “1A.” Nonetheless, this could shift, particularly with Hochul wanting to ally with state attorney general Letitia James.
Hank Shenkop, a seasoned Democratic consultant, commented that pairing Hochul with Adams would be advantageous for the governor’s re-election, highlighting representation of Black women from Southeast Queens like Adams on the ticket.
Shenkop also hinted that, as Adams faces an uphill battle in the upcoming mayoral primary on June 24, she may soon require alternatives as her congressional term ends this year.
The speculation surrounding Hochul’s interest in Adams sheds light on the rapid plans for opening yet another office, despite existing term limits.
This new office, situated in a renovated storefront at 122-21 111th Ave in South Ozone Park, is less than three miles from other district offices in Queens. While Adams hasn’t publicly confirmed an opening date, she did share a social media update about a mobile unit offering free legal services in the area.
When a reporter visited the new office on Thursday, it was closed. However, nearby residents were aware of the swift developments. The storefront has been completely revamped with nine security cameras and enhanced lighting, secured by a newly installed metal gate.
The exact costs related to renovations and rent remain unclear. The building’s landlord mentioned providing some upgrades as part of their lease agreements, stating that Adams “covered other expenses” including security enhancements.
Earlier this year, Adams faced some backlash concerning significant renovations at her current city hall office, sparking curiosity about how taxpayer money was allocated for these changes.
City council budgets tend to be flexible, often shifting funds from one area to another after each annual spending plan is adopted, according to various council members.
As of now, neither Hochul’s campaign nor Adams and Richards have commented on the situation, though Councillor Robert Holden from Queens expressed concerns. He criticized Adams for what he perceives as neglect of her responsibilities within a mere six months, arguing that setting up another office at taxpayers’ expense doesn’t make sense.
