New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced he will end his re‑election campaign just over a month before Election Day, reshaping the final stretch of the 2025 race.
He said it wasn’t one thing that pushed him out; it was multiple that piled up. There’s been a lot of pressure: a corruption case (one that was later dropped), nonstop media attention and money problems for his campaign.
His decision didn’t remove his name from the ballot, since it was too late in the process to withdraw. Adams said he will fulfill the remainder of his term, which ends January 1, 2026.
“I will continue to fight for this city,” he said.
Adams refused to endorse candidates and instead warned them of plans to deliberately increase conflict and disagreements among the community.
“That is not change, that is chaos,” Adams said. “Instead, I urge New Yorkers to choose leaders not by what they promise, but by what they have delivered.”
His exit leaves a smaller playing field. With his withdrawal, front‑runners include Democrat Zohran Mamdani and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Some view the exit as potentially giving Cuomo an opening to gain Adams’ supporters, especially those against Mamdani’s agenda.
During his time in office, Adams had some successes, such as reducing the post‑pandemic crime rates. Still, his time as mayor was also tainted by controversies.
Adams’ departure may simplify the ballot, but it complicates the choice for many New Yorkers still unsure about who should lead the city next. For some, the mayor’s decision brings frustration. For others, it’s a chance to turn the page. With around five weeks left, New York’s next chapter is still unwritten.
