Eric Adams Opts for Independent Mayoral Run

In a surprising turn of events, Eric Adams announced on Thursday that he will not pursue the Democratic nomination for mayor. Instead, he has decided to run as an independent candidate. This announcement was made through a campaign video, just a day after a federal judge definitively dismissed his corruption case.

Adams explained his decision by pointing to the prolonged legal battle that hindered his ability to campaign effectively. “More than 25,000 New Yorkers signed my Democratic primary petition, but the dismissal of the bogus case against me dragged on too long, making it impossible to mount a primary campaign while these false accusations were held over me,” he stated in the video.

Despite his challenges, Adams remains determined. “But I’m not a quitter. I’m a New Yorker,” he declared. “And that is why today, although I am still a Democrat, I am announcing that I will forgo the Democratic primary for mayor and appeal directly to all New Yorkers as an independent candidate in the general election.”

Adams’ Vision for Non-Partisan Leadership

Adams criticized the divisive rhetoric from both progressive and conservative factions, asserting his commitment to placing the interests of New Yorkers above partisan politics. “I firmly believe that this city is better served by truly independent leadership, not leaders pulled at by the extremists on the far left or the far right, but instead those rooted in the common middle, the place where the vast majority of New Yorkers are firmly planted,” he remarked.

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According to sources close to Adams, the mayor had been considering an independent run for weeks as his legal troubles continued. In his campaign update, Adams addressed the charges against him, acknowledging the potential impact on public perception. “I know that the accusations leveled against me may have shaken your confidence in me and that you may rightly have questions about my conduct,” he admitted.

He further clarified, “And let me be clear, although the charges against me were false, I trusted people I should not have and I regret that. But the issues I face are nothing compared to yours.” Adams emphasized his dedication to the city, stating, “Ultimately, it will be up to you who runs this city for the next four years. As someone who has always fought for you and who is accountable to only you, I hope I can earn your vote.”

Challenges Ahead in the General Election

Transitioning to the general election presents a significant challenge for Adams, especially after a first term riddled with scandals and declining popularity. Some supporters hope for a dramatic political revival, while skeptics doubt his chances of recovery.

Adams plans to submit his petitions to the Board of Elections on May 27, needing approximately 3,750 additional signatures to qualify. Currently, he has $3 million in campaign funds, a stark contrast to the modest $36,000 raised in the initial campaign filing period.

The announcement followed closely on the heels of a decision by Manhattan federal Judge Dale Ho, who dismissed the corruption charges against Adams with prejudice, preventing any future prosecution. This decision exceeded the requests from the Department of Justice under President Trump, which sought dismissal without prejudice, hinting at potential political motivations behind the charges.