Progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-Bronx/Queens) has called for the resignation of New York City Mayor Eric Adams amid a series of federal investigations and a wave of resignations from top City Hall officials. Ocasio-Cortez’s statement, posted on social media and reported by the New York Times, questions Mayor Adams’ ability to effectively lead the city amidst ongoing federal probes and the departure of key administration members.
The congresswoman’s call for Adams’ removal comes as a significant blow to the mayor, who has faced mounting pressure from various left-leaning lawmakers to step down in recent days. Ocasio-Cortez’s concerns stem from the recent federal raids on several of Adams’ top aides and the resignation of key administration officials, which she believes are threatening the functioning of the city government.
In her statement, Ocasio-Cortez expressed doubt about Mayor Adams’ capacity to lead New York City in light of the investigations and resignations, stating, “I do not see how Mayor Adams can continue governing New York City. The flood of resignations and vacancies are threatening government function. Nonstop investigations will make it impossible to recruit and retain a qualified administration. For the good of the city, he should resign.”
However, Mayor Adams was quick to respond to Ocasio-Cortez’s call for his resignation, criticizing her stance as hypocritical and highlighting his commitment to fighting for the people of New York City. Referring to Ocasio-Cortez’s progressive views on criminal justice, Adams stated, “For anyone who self-righteously claims people charged with serious crimes should not be in jail to now say that the second Black mayor of New York should resign because of rumors and innuendo — without even a single charge being filed — is the height of hypocrisy.”
Despite the mounting pressure from Ocasio-Cortez and other progressive lawmakers, Adams remains steadfast in his refusal to step down, emphasizing his dedication to serving the people of New York City. The mayor defended his administration’s accomplishments in combating crime and revitalizing the city’s economy, asserting that the ongoing investigations have not hindered his ability to govern effectively.
The federal corruption investigations surrounding Mayor Adams and his associates have cast a shadow over his administration, with four known probes currently underway. Recent raids on the homes of top City Hall officials have further fueled speculation and led to a series of resignations, including former Police Commissioner Edward Caban, City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg, Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan, and Education Chancellor David Banks.
Despite the turmoil surrounding his administration, Mayor Adams remains focused on his mission to serve the people of New York City and deliver tangible results. He has dismissed calls for his resignation as politically motivated and reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the needs of the city’s residents over partisan interests.
As the controversy surrounding Mayor Adams continues to unfold, the calls for his resignation from prominent figures like Ocasio-Cortez underscore the growing scrutiny facing his administration. The outcome of the federal investigations and the impact of the resignations on City Hall’s operations remain uncertain, leaving New Yorkers questioning the future of their city’s leadership.
