Public Advocate Jumaane Williams is putting pressure on Comptroller Brad Lander to drop out of the mayoral race amid speculation that Williams could become mayor if Eric Adams is ousted. While Williams does not plan on running against Adams in the Democratic primary, he is making it known that he will not give up the opportunity to be mayor if it is handed to him before then. Williams has been telling allies, including Lander, that he is ready to fight for the position if Adams resigns or is removed from office.
If Adams were to resign or be removed from office, the City Charter dictates that the public advocate would automatically become mayor until a special election is held to decide who serves out the remainder of Adams’ term, which expires at the end of 2025. Lander’s mayoral campaign is relying heavily on support from the same socialist and far-left Democratic base that is loyal to Williams. This has led to speculation that Lander may have to step aside if Williams decides to run for mayor.
State Attorney General Tish James has also been mentioned as a possible candidate for mayor, tapping into the same political base as Williams. However, insiders believe it is unlikely that James would run if Williams is interim mayor. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is eyeing a political comeback, is expected to run for mayor if Adams leaves office early. Cuomo’s candidacy would likely appeal to Adams’ moderate Democratic base, forcing the party’s far-left wing to rally around Williams, Lander, or James.
If Lander were to drop his mayoral bid, it is expected that he would seek re-election as comptroller in 2025, which could affect multiple Democratic primaries next year. For example, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and Brooklyn Councilman Justin Brannan are planning to run for comptroller, but may reconsider if Lander decides to run for re-election. Adams has stated that he plans to fight his federal corruption charges and seek a second term as mayor, adding further uncertainty to the upcoming Democratic primaries in New York City.
Overall, the political landscape in New York City is in a state of flux, with potential mayoral candidates jockeying for position amid the possibility of Adams being ousted. Williams is making it clear that he is prepared to fight for the mayoralty if the opportunity arises, putting pressure on Lander and other potential candidates to reconsider their plans. The outcome of the upcoming Democratic primaries will shape the future of the city’s leadership, as various factions vie for control and influence in the post-Adams era.
