In a major shakeup for New York City’s leadership, four top deputy mayors resigned Monday as controversy swirls around Mayor Eric Adams’ alleged quid pro quo deal to have federal corruption charges dropped.
The resignations come as Governor Kathy Hochul considers her options, including the unprecedented step of removing Adams from office. Meanwhile, pressure mounts from political leaders, activists, and former officials calling for Adams to step down.
Who Resigned and Why?
The four departing deputy mayors cited “extraordinary events” in the Adams administration, adding that they want to remain faithful to their oaths to New Yorkers and their families.
- Maria Torres-Springer – First Deputy Mayor
- Anne Williams-Isom – Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services
- Meera Joshi – Deputy Mayor for Operations
- Chauncey Parker – Deputy Mayor for Public Safety
“Due to the extraordinary events of the last few weeks and to stay faithful to the oaths we swore to New Yorkers, we have come to the difficult decision to step down.” – Joint statement from Torres-Springer, Williams-Isom, and Joshi
“Serving as deputy mayor for public safety under Mayor Adams has been an honor of a lifetime.” – Chauncey Parker
Their resignations leave four remaining deputy mayors, with a leadership vacuum threatening City Hall’s stability.
Remaining Deputy Mayors:
- Ana Almanzar – Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives
- Fabien Levy – Deputy Mayor for Communications
- Camille Joseph Varlack – Deputy Mayor for Administration
- Tiffany Raspberry – Deputy Mayor for Intergovernmental Affairs
Adams thanked the outgoing officials, calling them “extraordinary public servants”, but acknowledged the challenges ahead.
“New Yorkers owe them an enormous debt of gratitude. I am disappointed to see them go, but given the current challenges, I understand their decision.” – Mayor Eric Adams
Why Is Mayor Adams Under Pressure?
The resignations come as Adams faces calls for his removal over allegations that his administration cut a deal with the Trump White House to drop federal corruption charges in exchange for cooperation on immigration enforcement.
DOJ Controversy: The Justice Department ordered the Southern District of New York (SDNY) to drop the case against Adams, prompting resignations from federal prosecutors.
Federal Judge’s Decision Pending: Judge Dale Ho has yet to dismiss the case and may rule this week.
Special Counsel Request: Former U.S. Attorney Nathaniel Akerman has filed a motion asking for a special counsel to investigate instead of dropping charges.
“With the government agreeing with Mr. Adams to dismiss the indictment, no party before the court is representing the public interest.” – Nathaniel Akerman
Governor Hochul’s Response: Will She Remove Adams?
Governor Kathy Hochul said she is closely monitoring the situation and will hold emergency meetings with top New York political leaders this week, including:
- City Comptroller Brad Lander
- City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams
- House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries
- Queens Congressman Gregory Meeks
“If these deputy mayors feel unable to serve in City Hall, that raises serious questions about the long-term future of this administration.” – Gov. Kathy Hochul
While no New York governor has ever removed a sitting mayor, Hochul has not ruled it out.
“In the 235 years of New York State history, these powers have never been used to remove a duly elected mayor. But the allegations at City Hall are troubling and cannot be ignored.” – Gov. Kathy Hochul
Growing Calls for Adams to Resign
Political pressure is intensifying, with several Democratic leaders openly calling for Adams to step down.
City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams:
“The mayor has lost the trust of his staff, his colleagues, and New Yorkers. He must step aside.”
City Comptroller Brad Lander:
“If he cannot explain how he will fill these vacancies and run city government, I will move to convene the Committee on Mayoral Inability, essentially an impeachment process.”
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins:
“The governor must look at all options.”
Adams Remains Defiant, Holds Campaign Rally
Despite the resignations and growing backlash, Adams refused to step down and held a campaign rally in Brooklyn on Monday, surrounded by supporters.
“People said my administration was finished when I was indicted. Look at what we’ve accomplished. I will continue to lead through turmoil.” – Mayor Eric Adams
He dismissed speculation about his ability to govern, saying:
“New York City will keep moving forward. I am solely beholden to the 8.3 million New Yorkers I represent.”
Adams framed himself as a fighter who has overcome adversity, stating:
“I didn’t break when I was beaten as a young police officer. I didn’t break when they shot out my car windows. I won’t break now.”
What’s Next for NYC? Key Developments to Watch
Judge Dale Ho’s Decision: The federal judge may rule this week on whether to dismiss the corruption case or allow further investigation.
Governor Hochul’s Meetings: Discussions with state and city leaders will determine if Adams stays in office or faces removal.
City Government in Crisis: With four deputy mayors gone, City Hall must urgently fill leadership roles to maintain stability.
Adams’ Political Future: If Adams does not resign or face removal, his chances of re-election in 2025 could be severely impacted.
