The Big Picture
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has the authority to remove Mayor Eric Adams from office, but the process remains untested and unclear. In the 235-year history of New York State, no governor has ever exercised this power to oust a sitting mayor.
Adams has been facing mounting pressure to resign following his indictment on corruption charges last September. He has denied all allegations and has not stepped down. The Trump administration has since filed a motion to dismiss the charges, leading a judge to schedule a hearing to review the request.
Why It Matters?
The potential removal of a sitting New York City mayor is an unprecedented political and legal challenge. It raises questions about how the process would unfold and the implications for city leadership.
Governor Hochul acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Overturning the will of the voters is a serious step that should not be taken lightly.” However, she also expressed concern over the allegations, calling them "troubling" and saying they “cannot be ignored.”
With a mayoral election set for later this year, the timing of any decision is crucial. If Adams is removed soon, it could significantly impact the race and the city’s leadership transition.
The Removal Process
The New York City Charter outlines a process by which the governor can remove the mayor, but the details remain vague due to the lack of historical precedent.
Here’s how it would work:
Formal Charges: Hochul must provide Adams with a written complaint detailing the specific accusations that justify his removal.
Right to Defense: Adams would be granted an opportunity to defend himself, likely in a public hearing. However, the format and structure of this hearing are not clearly defined.
Suspension Option: While charges are under review, the governor has the authority to suspend Adams for up to 30 days.
Final Decision: After the hearing, Hochul would have the power to either remove Adams or allow him to remain in office.
Since no New York governor has ever used this process before, it is unclear how long the proceedings would take or what legal challenges might arise.
Who Takes Over If Adams Is Removed?
If Hochul decides to remove Adams from office, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would automatically become acting mayor. However, this transition comes with key election-related implications.
If Adams is removed before March 26, 2025 (which is 90 days before the June primary election), a special election must be called to fill the position temporarily. The winner of this election would serve as mayor until January 2026, when the next elected mayor takes office.
If Adams is removed after March 26, Williams would remain acting mayor until the regularly scheduled election determines a new mayor.
The timing of any decision will significantly impact the leadership of the city and the upcoming election cycle.
What’s Next?
Governor Hochul is meeting with top city officials to assess the situation. Meanwhile, a judge is set to hold a hearing to determine whether the corruption charges against Adams should be dismissed.
If the charges stand, Hochul will face a critical decision on whether to move forward with the removal process—setting a precedent for the state’s executive power over the city’s leadership.
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