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CBS News
a day ago
- Politics
- CBS News
Who's on the ballot in the NYC mayoral election? Meet the candidates in the Democratic primary
The New York City mayoral race is heating up as the June 2025 primary election approaches. The Democratic candidates face off in their next debate this week, and early voting starts this weekend. Eleven Democratic candidates are running to replace incumbent New York City Mayor Eric Adams in a crowded primary. Adams is running for reelection as an independent, so he bypasses the primary and will face the winner of the Democratic field, along with Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa and fellow independent candidate Jim Walden, in the November general election. If former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo loses the Democratic primary, he will still appear on the November ballot as an independent. If state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani loses, he will likely still appear for the Working Families Party. The second Democratic debate is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Early voting for the primary starts this Saturday, June 14 and will take place for nine days ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, June 24. Get to know the Democratic candidates and where they stand on the issues with these in-depth interviews from CBS News New York's Political Reporter Marcia Kramer on "The Point." NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams New York City mayoral candidate Adrienne Adams appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams hopes to break the glass ceiling and become the first woman to live in Gracie Mansion -- and the first woman of color. In our April interview, Adams spoke about suing to keep ICE off Rikers Island and the deadline to close the jail complex, her plan to provide guaranteed income for homeless families, threats of federal tariffs and funding cuts, Mayor Eric Adams' (no relation) decision to run as an independent and his relationship with the White House, navigating the city's budget negotiations, how to handle quality of life concerns, and NYPD staffing and overtime strains. Her message to New Yorkers: "I am the leader that will do that work -- the leader that's already been doing that work. And all I have to say, wife, mother, grandmother, give it to the woman, and we're going to get things done, just move me over into that side of City Hall." CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from her campaign. Former state Assemblyman Michael Blake New York City mayoral candidate Michael Blake appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York Michael Blake worked for former President Barack Obama and represented the Bronx in the New York State Assembly. Now, he wants to be mayor. "I'm the only person who has federal, state and local experience," he said in our February interview. "When you think about who has to be a mayor, a mayor is a manager. We're talking about a $100 billion dollar enterprise of a city where we can transform what's possible." He went on to speak about Mayor Adams' relationship with President Trump, which he called "unacceptable," and how to make the city more affordable under his plan for "guaranteed income" and "local median income," along with affordable housing, universal child care, and bringing back businesses to drive commercial revenue. He also shared his thoughts on some cost-saving policies from other candidates, and the impact of Canadian tariffs on local utilities. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo Democratic mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo speaks during in the New York City Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate at NBC Studios on June 4, 2025 in New York City. Yuki Iwamura / Getty Images Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo made a big splash when he entered the race in March and has been polling as the frontrunner ever since. "I know what needs to be done and I know how to do it. Experience matters. Leading New York City in the midst of a crisis is not the time or the place for on-the-job training," he said in his campaign announcement. Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who has largely stayed out of mayoral politics since leaving office, came forward to endorse Cuomo, pointing to his experience and leadership as governor. "In sizing up the field in the race for mayor, there is one candidate whose management experience and government know-how stand above the others: Andrew Cuomo," Bloomberg said in a statement. Cuomo announced would run on both the Democratic and independent tickets, so he can be on the ballot in November whether he wins the primary or not. He was a favorite punching bag in the first debate, as the other candidates repeatedly brought up his sexual harassment scandal. Cuomo was forced to resign as governor in 2021 after the state attorney general's office found he sexually harassed nearly a dozen women and created a hostile work environment. He denied the allegations but ultimately stepped down in the face of an impeachment investigation. His administration was also accused of lying about the number of nursing home residents who died during the COVID pandemic, and he is currently under investigation by the Department of Justice. Cuomo did not appear for an interview on "The Point." CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. NYC Comptroller Brad Lander New York City mayoral candidate Brad Lander appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York New York City Comptroller Brad Lander thinks it's time for new leadership at City Hall. In our February interview, he addressed Mr. Trump's threats to kill congestion pricing, Mayor Adams' since-dropped corruption case, Cuomo's decision to join the race, and his plan for ethics reform at City Hall. Lander went on to speak about the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration and the economic impact, how to address homelessness and mental illness with supportive housing, a plan to use the city pension fund to help municipal employees buy homes, and how to increase voter participation and spread his message. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani represents part of Queens and recently earned the endorsement of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in the race. The democratic socialist built a campaign based on lowering the cost of living, including a rent freeze on stabilized units. A May 2025 Emerson College poll of Democratic candidates placed him second with 23% behind Cuomo at 35%, and he told Kramer he believes a significant get-out-the-vote effort could be consequential. If there's a candidate who appears most likely to potentially defeat Cuomo in the primary, Mamdani may be it. In our March interview, Kramer asked him about Mayor Adams' corruption scandal and turnover in his administration, what he thinks about Cuomo and Speaker Adams joining the race, and how he would fund his plans for free buses and universal free child care. He also spoke about fighting federal funding cuts, his push to get younger voters to the polls, raising the corporate tax rate, bipartisan politics and what brings him hope. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. State Sen. Zellnor Myrie New York City mayoral candidate Zellnor Myrie appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York State Sen. Zellnor Myrie took over Eric Adams' state Senate seat in 2019, and now he wants to do it again. "I'm a New Yorkers through and through," he said in our January interview. Myrie, who represents part of Brooklyn, said he would focus on making the city safer and more affordable, including a lofty plan to build a million apartments and a law enforcement strategy that includes more police officers. He went on to discuss how to address mental illness on the streets and subways, Mayor Adams' progress on public safety and the mayor's relationship with Mr. Trump, saying the city needs fresh leadership with "integrity" and is "serious about the job." He also spoke about how to address the MTA's budget gap in Albany, Gov. Kathy Hochul's inflation refund checks, threats to the state's sanctuary laws, and the deadline to close Rikers Island. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. State Sen. Jessica Ramos New York City mayoral candidate Jessica Ramos appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York State Sen. Jessica Ramos also thinks the clock has run out on Mayor Adams' administration. While she is still in the race, she made a stunning announcement to endorse Cuomo, telling her supporters to rank him No. 1 on the ballot due to her low polling numbers and inability to raise money. It was a surprising turnaround for someone who was once one of Cuomo's harshest critics. She said she now believes Cuomo is the best person to take on Mr. Trump. "We need serious governing. We need delivery over dogma. Knowing how to govern matters, and that's why I'm endorsing Andrew Cuomo for mayor today," Ramos said. "This wasn't an easy decision." In our January interview, Ramos said her record is what sets her apart, pointing to legislation to raise the minimum wage and expand child care affordability. She answered questions about housing and "City of Yes," her plan for property tax reform, addressing safety and mental illness on the subway. She went on to speak about taxing billionaires, as well as helping small businesses, funding the MTA's capital plan in the state budget, and some more personal questions, like why she doesn't have a drivers license. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from her campaign. Former NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer New York City mayoral candidate Scott Stringer appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York Former New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer ran for mayor once before, now he thinks the second time is the charm. In our interview from last December, he said he would lead with "competence," referencing former Mayor Ed Koch's 1997 campaign slogan. Stringer answered questions about Mr. Trump's mass deportation threats, his plan to align policing and mental health services, building affordable housing and supporting congestion pricing. He said he would be "the streets mayor" and look to expand the bus network and fair fares program. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. Businessman Whitney Tilson New York City mayoral candidate Whitney Tilson appears on "The Point" with Marcia Kramer. CBS News New York Whitney Tilson spent his childhood in Tanzania and Nicaragua, climbs mountains for sport and participated in the Stanford marshmallow challenge -- making him a mayoral candidate like no other. In our January interview, the former hedge fund manager spoke about his "disappointment" in Mayor Adams, taking a hyper localized approach to public safety, growing the city's economy by making it more business friendly (calling the loss of the potential Amazon headquarters in Long Island City, Queens "crazy"), and how to address the cost of living and housing affordability. He also shared his thoughts on improving schools and called for lifting the cap on charter schools. He went on to speak about spending on asylum seekers, and said he supports deporting serious criminals under the current sanctuary laws. CLICK HERE to watch the full interview, and CLICK HERE for more from his campaign. Additional Democratic candidates Dr. Selma Bartholomew and Paperboy Love Prince did not appear on "The Point." Other citywide elections on the primary ballot In order to vote in the primary, you must be registered as either a Democrat or Republican. The Democratic ballot includes citywide elections for public advocate and comptroller. Some districts will also vote for borough president, City Council, district attorney, supreme court and civil judges. Incumbent Public Advocate Jumaane Williams is running for reelection against Democratic challengers Marty Dolan and Jenifer Rajkumar. The Democratic primary for comptroller features Justin Brannan, Mark Levine, Kevin Parker and Ismael Perez. The Republican primary features Peter Kefalas and Danniel Maio. CLICK HERE to look up a sample ballot for your party and district. contributed to this report.
Miami Herald
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Andrew Cuomo's Chances of Winning Democratic Primary
Andrew Cuomo is emerging as the clear front-runner in the Democratic primary race for New York City mayor, with new polling showing he is the first choice of nearly 40 percent of likely voters. The strong early showing suggests that Cuomo's political base remains solid, despite past issues, and that his message is resonating with a sizable portion of the Democratic electorate. If these numbers persist, his path to the nomination may be shorter and smoother than expected—reshaping the dynamics of the race and putting pressure on rivals to consolidate support or risk elimination. A primary win for Cuomo would mark a dramatic political comeback, just four years after he resigned as governor in 2021 amid the threat of impeachment over sexual misconduct allegations—which he has consistently denied. According to a new survey by Marist Poll, conducted between May 1-8 among 3,383 likely Democratic primary voters, Cuomo is the first choice of 37 percent of likely Democratic primary voters, including those who are undecided, but leaning toward a candidate. With his closest rival, Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, trailing at 18 percent, Cuomo's commanding lead places him in a strong position ahead of what's expected to be a fiercely contested race. Trailing Mamdani are NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (9 percent), NYC Comptroller Brad Lander (8 percent), former Manhattan borough president Scott Stringer (4 percent), and State Senator Zellnor Myrie (3 percent). State Senator Jessica Ramos earns 2 percent, Whitney Tilson 1 percent, and former Democratic National Convention Vice Chair Michael Blake polls at under 1 percent. But notably, 17 percent of likely Democratic primary voters remain undecided—leaving room for late shifts in momentum. Nonetheless, the poll shows that Cuomo's support is not only broad, but geographically strong, signaling that his appeal is widespread. He performs best in the Bronx, where he garners 50 percent, and holds 48 percent in both Queens and Staten Island. In Manhattan, he leads with 32 percent, while he and Mamdani are tied at 25 percent each in Brooklyn. Cuomo is also consolidating support among key Democratic constituencies, particularly older voters and communities of color, giving him a critical advantage in the New York City mayoral primary. According to the poll, nearly half of likely Democratic voters aged 45 and older back Cuomo—an important edge given that older voters historically turn out in much higher numbers than younger ones. Mamdani, meanwhile, leads among younger voters, capturing 38 percent of Democrats under 45 compared to just 18 percent for Cuomo. He also commands strong support from the party's left flank, winning nearly half of voters who identify as "very liberal." Cuomo, by contrast, dominates among Democrats who describe themselves as liberal, moderate, or conservative. Racial and ethnic divides are also shaping the race. Cuomo holds overwhelming support among Black voters, with 50 percent saying they plan to vote for him—far ahead of other candidates, including Adams, who is backed by about one in seven Black Democrats. Cuomo also leads among Latino voters, securing 41 percent support—more than double Mamdani's 20 percent. Jewish voters are more divided, with Cuomo leading at 26 percent, followed by Lander (17 percent), Mamdani (14 percent), and Adams (10 percent). And in ranked choice voting projections, Cuomo begins with 44 percent of the vote in the first round—more than double Mamdani's 22 percent. Adams follows with 11 percent, and Lander with 10 percent. By the fifth round, Cuomo breaks the 50 percent threshold, winning with 53 percent of likely Democratic voters (excluding undecided voters), while Mamdani ends with 29 percent, and Lander with 18 percent. Cuomo also led in ranked choice voting projections in a survey conducted by Data for Progress between March 17–24 among 854 likely Democratic primary voters. In that poll, in the first round of the ranked choice simulation, Cuomo led with 39 percent, followed by Mamdani at 15 percent, Lander at 8 percent, and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams at 7 percent. City Council Speaker Adams received 5 percent, while all other candidates polled below that mark. The poll had a margin of error of +3 percentage points. But with three months remaining until the primary election, the dynamics of the race may still shift. Around this point in 2021, Andrew Yang led in public polling by double digits, but ultimately finished fourth, with 12 percent of the vote. Online betting site Polymarket currently puts Cuomo's odds of winning the Democratic primary at 89 percent. Mamdani follows with odds of 7 percent. Every other candidate has odds of 1 percent or less. Current Mayor Adams has exited the Democratic primary and is now seeking reelection through independent ballot lines. On the Republican side, Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa is the party's nominee, while attorney Jim Walden is mounting his own independent campaign. Marist pollster Lee Miringoff said: "Right now Cuomo is on a path to success. Someone is going to have to bring him down." Early voting for the primary is set to run from June 14-22. Related Articles Donald Trump's Approval Rating Suffers Double DentPete Buttigieg's 2028 Chances as He Gives Update on Possible RunNew Jersey Governor Race Update: What Polls Say Four Weeks Ahead of PrimaryDonald Trump's Approval Rating Reaches New Low Point: Poll 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Andrew Cuomo's Chances of Winning Democratic Primary
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Andrew Cuomo is emerging as the clear front-runner in the Democratic primary race for New York City mayor, with new polling showing he is the first choice of nearly 40 percent of likely voters. Why It Matters The strong early showing suggests that Cuomo's political base remains solid, despite past issues, and that his message is resonating with a sizable portion of the Democratic electorate. If these numbers persist, his path to the nomination may be shorter and smoother than expected—reshaping the dynamics of the race and putting pressure on rivals to consolidate support or risk elimination. A primary win for Cuomo would mark a dramatic political comeback, just four years after he resigned as governor in 2021 amid the threat of impeachment over sexual misconduct allegations—which he has consistently denied. What To Know According to a new survey by Marist Poll, conducted between May 1-8 among 3,383 likely Democratic primary voters, Cuomo is the first choice of 37 percent of likely Democratic primary voters, including those who are undecided, but leaning toward a candidate. With his closest rival, Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, trailing at 18 percent, Cuomo's commanding lead places him in a strong position ahead of what's expected to be a fiercely contested race. Trailing Mamdani are NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (9 percent), NYC Comptroller Brad Lander (8 percent), former Manhattan borough president Scott Stringer (4 percent), and State Senator Zellnor Myrie (3 percent). State Senator Jessica Ramos earns 2 percent, Whitney Tilson 1 percent, and former Democratic National Convention Vice Chair Michael Blake polls at under 1 percent. Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo speaks during a mayoral candidates' forum on April 23, 2025, in New York City. Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo speaks during a mayoral candidates' forum on April 23, 2025, in New York City. Frank Franklin II/AP But notably, 17 percent of likely Democratic primary voters remain undecided—leaving room for late shifts in momentum. Nonetheless, the poll shows that Cuomo's support is not only broad, but geographically strong, signaling that his appeal is widespread. He performs best in the Bronx, where he garners 50 percent, and holds 48 percent in both Queens and Staten Island. In Manhattan, he leads with 32 percent, while he and Mamdani are tied at 25 percent each in Brooklyn. Cuomo is also consolidating support among key Democratic constituencies, particularly older voters and communities of color, giving him a critical advantage in the New York City mayoral primary. According to the poll, nearly half of likely Democratic voters aged 45 and older back Cuomo—an important edge given that older voters historically turn out in much higher numbers than younger ones. Mamdani, meanwhile, leads among younger voters, capturing 38 percent of Democrats under 45 compared to just 18 percent for Cuomo. He also commands strong support from the party's left flank, winning nearly half of voters who identify as "very liberal." Cuomo, by contrast, dominates among Democrats who describe themselves as liberal, moderate, or conservative. Racial and ethnic divides are also shaping the race. Cuomo holds overwhelming support among Black voters, with 50 percent saying they plan to vote for him—far ahead of other candidates, including Adams, who is backed by about one in seven Black Democrats. Cuomo also leads among Latino voters, securing 41 percent support—more than double Mamdani's 20 percent. Jewish voters are more divided, with Cuomo leading at 26 percent, followed by Lander (17 percent), Mamdani (14 percent), and Adams (10 percent). And in ranked choice voting projections, Cuomo begins with 44 percent of the vote in the first round—more than double Mamdani's 22 percent. Adams follows with 11 percent, and Lander with 10 percent. By the fifth round, Cuomo breaks the 50 percent threshold, winning with 53 percent of likely Democratic voters (excluding undecided voters), while Mamdani ends with 29 percent, and Lander with 18 percent. Cuomo also led in ranked choice voting projections in a survey conducted by Data for Progress between March 17–24 among 854 likely Democratic primary voters. In that poll, in the first round of the ranked choice simulation, Cuomo led with 39 percent, followed by Mamdani at 15 percent, Lander at 8 percent, and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams at 7 percent. City Council Speaker Adams received 5 percent, while all other candidates polled below that mark. The poll had a margin of error of +3 percentage points. But with three months remaining until the primary election, the dynamics of the race may still shift. Around this point in 2021, Andrew Yang led in public polling by double digits, but ultimately finished fourth, with 12 percent of the vote. Online betting site Polymarket currently puts Cuomo's odds of winning the Democratic primary at 89 percent. Mamdani follows with odds of 7 percent. Every other candidate has odds of 1 percent or less. Current Mayor Adams has exited the Democratic primary and is now seeking reelection through independent ballot lines. On the Republican side, Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa is the party's nominee, while attorney Jim Walden is mounting his own independent campaign. What People Are Saying Marist pollster Lee Miringoff said: "Right now Cuomo is on a path to success. Someone is going to have to bring him down." What Happens Next Early voting for the primary is set to run from June 14-22.
New York Post
10-05-2025
- Politics
- New York Post
NYC Council's powerless charter revision panel stacked with cronies earning six-figure salaries
NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and the rest of the legislative body's far-left majority are on pace to burn through millions of dollars in taxpayer money funding a powerless panel stacked with political cronies whose Machiavellian mission is to weaken the mayor's power — for their own gain, The Post has learned. The Council's so-called 'NYC Commission to Strengthen Local Democracy' – which is in the process of soliciting public input on ways to revise government operations that include diminishing a sitting mayor's veto powers and boosting the Council's say in high-level agency appointments – is all but obsolete. That's because Mayor Eric Adams – who isn't related to the speaker but is her political adversary — appointed his own Charter Revision Commission in December that is reviewing ways to tackle the city's housing crisis and other possible rule charges. Under city election rules, only proposals from the mayor's commission can appear on the November ballot if both panels submit proposals. 6 NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (pictured) and the legislative body's far-left majority are on pace to burn through millions of dollars in taxpayer money funding a powerless panel filled with political cronies eyeing ways to weaken the Big Apple's 'strong mayor' form of government. The speaker's commission under its bylaws can technically wait another year to try putting referendum questions on the ballot, but it would again be at the mercy of the sitting mayor blocking it. However, that didn't stop the speaker and Council from appointing a 17-member commission in January. 6 Casie Addison (pictured) stepped down as chief of staff for Councilwoman Crystal Hudson (D-Brooklyn) to become the commission's deputy director and senior advisor Casie Addison/ Linkedin The Council posted legal notices seeking to hire 16 execs, lawyers, publicists and other staffers to run the commission – including three earning up to $200,000 and six others making at least six figures, records show. The projected yearly salary ranges totaled $1,972,400 to $2,187,330 – well beyond the $250,000 Speaker Adams and the Council budgeted for the commission, records show. 6 Danielle Castaldi-Micca, the NYC Council's former deputy chief of staff, was appointed the commission's executive director. NIRHAction/ X 'It's just a big waste of money,' said a Democratic councilmember who typically sides with the speaker. 'We're in the middle of the budget season, and everyone knows this Charter Commission is not going anywhere, so why waste everyone's time?' 'This commission is nothing more than an extraordinary vanity project for Adrienne Adams filled with unnecessary, exorbitant salaries, ' added a Democratic City Hall source. Most of the jobs have been filled by Democratic operatives seeking greener pastures. Others remain vacant. 6 Henry Garrido is executive director of District Council 37, the city's largest municipal employee union, which is endorsing Speaker Adams for mayor. The speaker appointed him co-chair of the commission reviewing the City Charter. Gabriella Bass Those hired include Casie Addison, who stepped down as chief of staff for Councilwoman Crystal Hudson (D-Brooklyn) to become the commission's deputy director and senior advisor; and James Dezell, the former spokesman for state Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (D-Bronx), who was tapped as the commission's communications director. Addison's new gig was advertised to pay $175,000 to $200,000, and communications director job $145,600 to $155,600. The speaker in January separately appointed Danielle Castaldi-Micca, the Council's former deputy chief of staff, as the commission's executive director. The job's salary range was never made public, but sources said Castaldi-Micca's salary exceeds the $186,000 she made yearly for the Council. In comparison, Mayor Adams has appointed two Charter Revision Commissions since taking office in 2022 and none relied on hired help. Instead, City Hall staff assisted the commission as part of their regular duties. The 17 members of the Council-created commission aren't paid salaries, but many are politically connected – including co-chairs Henry Garrido and Arva Rice. 6 The Council's far-left majority claims it created the commission because of Mayor Eric Adams' willingness to cross party lines and have a cordial working relationship Republican President Donald Trump. Adams pictured here. Andrew Schwartz / Garrido is executive director of District Council 37, the city's largest municipal employee union, which is endorsing Speaker Adams for mayor. Rice is an outspoken former head of the Civilian Complaint Review Board who resigned from the post last year following a public feud with Mayor Adams' administration over budget cuts she claimed made it difficult for the NYPD watchdog entity to do its job. Besides the co-chairs, seven other members were appointed by the speaker, including four who donated to her mayoral campaign. 6 James Dezell, the former spokesman for state Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (D-Bronx), who was tapped as the commission's communications director. James Dezell Jr./ Linkedin The Council's office and the commission declined to address the panel's bloated payroll. Instead, Council spokeswoman Julia Agos defended the panel's creation, saying it was necessary because of Mayor Adams' willingness to cross party lines and have a cordial working relationship Republican President Donald Trump. 'It is absurd to claim a Charter Revision Commission focused on strengthening local democracy is unnecessary when our city's independence is under attack by Trump in partnership with our own mayor,' she said.
New York Post
03-05-2025
- Politics
- New York Post
Albany Dems pushing bill to let NYC Council oust mayor
A pair of lefty state pols are pushing new legislation that would provide the City Council immense power to remove a sitting mayor from office. The bill introduced Thursday by state Sen. Jabari Brisport (D-Brooklyn) and Assemblyman Harvey Epstein (D-Manhattan) would put the screws to the Big Apple's 'strong mayor' form of government by allowing the Council to oust a mayor with a three-fourths majority, or 39 of its 51 members. 3 State Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, a Manhattan Democrat (pictured) and Sen. Jabari Brisport (D-Brooklyn) and are pushing new legislation that would provide the NYC Council immense power to remove a sitting mayor from office. Zach Williams / NY Post Advertisement The bill is in direct response to Gov. Kathy Hochul refusing to bow to pressure earlier this year from far-left Democrats and remove Mayor Eric Adams from office after President Donald Trump's Justice Department dropped the mayor's corruption case. Brisport and Epstein claim the move left Hizzoner beholden to the Republican president, which Adams has adamantly denied. 'It makes no sense that we have had to wait around for a governor from Buffalo to make a decision about our city,' Brisport said. Advertisement Adams spokesperson Kayla Mamelak ripped the new bill, saying Brisport and Epstein 'are smacking democracy in the face and making it abundantly clear that they do not care at all about the will of the voters.' 3 A rep for Mayor Eric Adams (pictured) said the bill's sponsors are 'smacking democracy in the face.' James Messerschmidt 'The nearly 8.5 million New Yorkers who call this city home are the only people who should ever be able to decide who their mayor is, and Jabari and Harvey should be ashamed for trying to usurp the will of the people,' she said. Epstein has added incentive for the bill to pass: he's running for a City Council seat representing the Lower East Side. Advertisement 3 Sen. Jabari Brisport said he is sponsoring the bill because Gov. Kathy Hochul didn't use her power to remove Mayor Adams from office. Adams, a registered Democrat, is running in November for a second four-year term, but as an independent. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo is the favorite to win the June 24 Democratic mayoral primary, whose crowded field also includes Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. Reps for Cuomo declined and the speaker — who is not related to the mayor – declined to comment.
