New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that she will not remove New York City Mayor Eric Adams from office, despite ongoing controversy and federal charges that were recently dropped. Instead, she plans to impose
“guardrails” to enhance oversight of Adams’ administration—a move likely requiring legislative approval.
Defending the Will of the Voters
Hochul acknowledged concerns about Adams but said removing him would undermine democratic principles.
"My strong belief is that the will of the voters and the supremacy and sanctity of democratic elections preclude me from any other action," Hochul stated. "I understand the outrage and the sense of betrayal many New Yorkers feel, but those who argue to 'just go and remove him' fail to appreciate that there is a process involved."
Her remarks follow the Department of Justice’s Feb. 10 decision to drop criminal charges against Adams, which had accused him of accepting luxury gifts in exchange for political favors.
Proposed Oversight Measures
To enhance accountability, Hochul introduced several initiatives, including:
- A Special Inspector General within the State Inspector General’s Office to oversee city investigations.
- Expanded authority for the city comptroller, public advocate, and City Council speaker to take legal action against federal policies affecting New York.
- Increased funding for the Office of the Deputy State Comptroller to monitor city decision-making, particularly regarding federal policies.
Hochul framed these measures as a safeguard against what she called Trump’s “revenge tour,” alleging that the president is using political influence to punish New York following his legal battles.
Adams Pushes Back
Mayor Adams swiftly responded, rejecting any limits on his authority.
"There is no legal basis for limiting New Yorkers' power by limiting the authority of my office," Adams stated. "I was elected to uphold the values of working-class New Yorkers, and I look forward to continuing conversations with the governor."
Legal Controversy and Political Fallout
Adams had previously pleaded not guilty to a five-count federal indictment alleging that he improperly pressured city agencies to approve the Turkish consulate in Manhattan. Federal prosecutors dropped the case, citing Adams’ role in immigration enforcement, though Acting U.S. Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove insisted there was "no quid pro quo" involved in the decision.
The move prompted seven federal prosecutors, including U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon, to resign in protest. Four deputy mayors in Adams’ administration also stepped down earlier this week.
Trump’s Influence
Adams, who met with President Trump shortly before the case was dropped, has received the president’s vocal support. Trump has suggested Adams was unjustly prosecuted and has hinted at a possible pardon.
"I think he was treated pretty unfairly," Trump said in December.
As scrutiny continues, Hochul’s proposed oversight measures signal a push for increased transparency in City Hall—without overriding the outcome of the last mayoral election.
