Eric Adams Responds to Andrew Cuomo’s Request to Withdraw from NYC Mayoral Race

Mayor Eric Adams publicly criticized former Governor Andrew Cuomo after Cuomo reportedly asked Adams to step aside from the upcoming mayoral election, claiming such an request demonstrated “the highest level of arrogance.” Adams shared on CNBC that the two recently discussed Cuomo’s suggestion for Adams to exit the race to benefit Cuomo’s chances against socialist state lawmaker Zohran Mamdani in November.

Adams firmly rejected the proposal, questioning Cuomo’s sense of self-importance. “I said, ‘Andrew, are you that level of arrogance?’ I’m the sitting mayor of New York City,” Adams recounted. He highlighted Cuomo’s recent poor performance in the primary, where Cuomo lost to Mamdani by 12 points despite significant financial and political backing, implying Cuomo’s appeal has diminished.

Mayor Eric Adams on CNBC discussing his campaign. — Adams, a registered Democrat, declined to participate in the primary due to legal issues, while Cuomo was defeated by Mamdani.

Adams questioned Cuomo’s ability to secure victory in New York’s competitive landscape, asserting, “You can’t just show up on weekends. You have to be consistent and present.” He also accused Cuomo of attempting to block black candidates from advancing, citing Cuomo’s past actions against notable figures like Carl McCall in 2002.

Mayor Eric Adams on CNBC's Squawk Box discussing his independent campaign. — Adams claims Cuomo’s decision to join his independent line was a setup, and Cuomo has been criticized for political maneuvering.

Adams also said Cuomo was aware of his independent candidacy beforehand and suggested Cuomo’s attempt to join the line was strategic. Cuomo’s campaign responded, stating there is “no path to victory” for Adams and reiterated that Adams knew he was unelectable in the primary due to his standing within the Democratic Party.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams on CNBC discussing NYC's economy and reelection campaign. — Despite formal candidacies, both Adams and Cuomo appear on the ballot as independents.

Polls show Adams trailing Cuomo significantly, with Mamdani favored at 41%, Cuomo at 26%, and Adams at 16%. Regardless of their campaign efforts, both Adams and Cuomo will appear on the November ballot.