Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright is expected to resign from her position as Mayor Eric Adams’ second in command following the mayor’s indictment on federal corruption charges. This news comes as the latest in a series of high-ranking administration officials stepping down amidst the ongoing scandal.
Wright’s likely departure was first reported by the New York Post and could happen as soon as Friday night. While Adams did not directly address Wright’s imminent resignation when speaking to reporters, it is clear that she will be the sixth top aide to resign since the federal investigations began.
The recent announcement of her husband, Schools Chancellor David Banks, leaving his post earlier than planned at the mayor’s request, adds to the tumult within City Hall. Senior adviser Tim Pearson also resigned this week, indicating a significant shakeup in Adams’ administration.
It appears that Wright’s exit may not be on good terms, as she is reportedly unhappy about Adams pushing her husband out sooner than expected. Additionally, Adams is said to be looking for a more effective manager to demonstrate that city government is still functioning normally despite the charges against him.
Potential replacements for Wright include Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer, Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack, and Anthony Shorris, who previously held a similar position under former Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Wright has played a crucial role in overseeing the city’s budget, technology, and efficiency offices as first deputy mayor. Before her current position, she served as Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives and led the nonprofit United Way of New York City.
Adams, who pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy, bribery, soliciting foreign campaign donations, and wire fraud, continues to face legal troubles. The indictment alleges that he accepted bribes from Turkish nationals in exchange for pushing the FDNY to approve a Turkish consulate building that failed safety inspections.
As the scandal unfolds, Adams is under pressure to address the growing number of resignations and maintain stability within his administration. The ongoing federal investigations and legal proceedings cast a shadow over the mayor’s ability to govern effectively amidst the mounting challenges he faces.
