With Mayor Eric Adams facing federal charges, top Democrats are preparing for the possibility of Attorney General Letitia James stepping in as a candidate if Adams is forced to leave office. State Democratic Party leader Jay Jacobs told the New York Post that support is growing for James, explaining that there are concerns a special election could create further turmoil in the city’s political landscape.
Although Jacobs did not call for Adams’ resignation, he said that the party lacks enthusiasm for a potential run by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who resigned amid multiple allegations in 2021. “You open a whole can of worms with Cuomo,” Jacobs explained, adding, “I don’t know if we would want to revisit that.”
James, who was campaigning in the Hudson Valley, said she had not spoken with Gov. Kathy Hochul about a mayoral bid but did not entirely rule out the possibility. “I don’t believe in speculation. Right now, I’m focused on the office of the attorney general,” she said.
According to the Post, Hochul’s team has been quietly researching how to use a little-known state law that could allow her to remove Adams from office. If Adams is ousted, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would temporarily step in as mayor until a special election is held. However, insiders see Williams as a short-term placeholder and believe James would be a stronger candidate in a special election.
James’ potential entry into the race is seen as a way to consolidate support among both centrist and progressive Democrats. Other possible contenders include State Senators Jessica Ramos and Zellnor Myrie, as well as City Comptroller Brad Lander.
For now, James’ camp appears cautious. One source close to the Attorney General told the Post that she does not see Adams leaving office in the near future and has no immediate plans to run. However, her name continues to be floated as a top choice should the mayor’s legal troubles lead to a shakeup at City Hall.
