Black lawmakers warn Gov. Hochul against ousting Mayor Adams

• Black lawmakers wrote a letter to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul stating their opposition to removing New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Hochul met with key leaders on Tuesday to discuss whether Adams could serve the city effectively after an indictment and quid pro quo allegations.
• Eight elected officials signed the letter, led by Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn.
• Hochul said she would at least wait until a federal judge gets an explanation from prosecutors about why Adams’ corruption charges should be dropped.

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A group of Black lawmakers are warning New York Gov. Kathy Hochul of possible political fallout if she were to remove New York City Mayor Eric Adams from office. Hochul’s office is debating the idea after Adams was accused of a quid pro quo with the Justice Department.

In a letter obtained by Politico, the eight elected officials, led by Democratic New York State Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, wrote they wanted to make it “crystal clear” they oppose any move to remove Adams.

What did the letter say?

“As Black legislators we have seen this over and over again: double standards and unfair process when it comes to our leaders. If a move against the mayor is made without a justifiable legal reason, our communities will never forget it.” 

The warning comes after Hochul met with key leaders on Tuesday, Feb. 18. The meeting included Rev. Al Sharpton.

The group discussed potentially removing Adams from office over concerns about his ability to serve the city effectively after four of his deputy mayors quit.

What allegations does Adams face?

Adams is accused of a quid pro quo with the Justice Department. Officials claim the DOJ dropped criminal charges against him in exchange for Adams helping the Trump administration’s immigration policies.

In September 2024, Adams was indicted on five federal counts of bribery, corruption, wire fraud and soliciting and accepting donations from foreign nationals. 

Adams pleaded not guilty and denied any wrongdoing. 

What did Gov. Hochul say about an upcoming decision?

Hochul said she would at least wait until a federal judge Wednesday, Feb. 19, gets an explanation from prosecutors about why the charges should be dropped.

In a statement Monday, Feb. 17, Hochul said, “Overturning the will of the voters is a serious step that should not be taken lightly.”

The lawmakers noted in their letter to Hochul, “There is an election in June, and New Yorkers can once again determine their leadership then. Elections give the ability for voters to choose who they want to represent them. New Yorkers will recognize that once this difficult period is behind us.”

Hochul has not responded to the letter publicly.

There’s no word whether she responded directly to the lawmakers.