Exclusive | NY officials scramble over possibility of removing Mayor Eric Adams from office: sources
New York State officials are scrambling to figure out how exactly they can legally remove a sitting mayor — as details from the bombshell federal indictment of Eric Adams emerge, The Post has learned.The sprint to outline a blueprint on how to oust a mayor — a rarely used power by New York’s governor — comes amid fears that Adams will defy increasingly deafening calls for his resignation.If Adams digs in his heels, he could put Gov.Kathy Hochul in uncharted territory as the mayor of the nation’s largest city fights criminal charges accusing him of taking bribes from foreign nationals and defrauding taxpayers of $10 million.A spokesperson for Hochul didn’t deny that state officials are reviewing obscure legal code detailing how to remove a mayor from office, but downplayed its significance.“Of course, the counsel’s office would be prepared to present to the governor on any possible legal scenario related to this matter,” the spokesperson said.
“But as the governor has made clear, she is reviewing the details made public this morning and it would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this time.”New York City’s mayor can be removed from office by the governor “upon charges,” and provided he or she is given an opportunity to present a defense, according to the city charter.Eric Adams indicted: Live updates after NYC mayor hit with indictmentHochul, during a Thursday morning appearance, pledged to address the charges against Adams later in the day.When asked how her experience under former Gov.
Andrew Cuomo during his resignation affected her decision-making, she said it was important to maintain the confidence of rightfully anxious New Yorkers.“I know this, and anything I can do as the leader of this great state to assure them that they are in good hands, we will make sure we get through this,” she said.“It is shocking.”Other state officials are preparing to do business with a potential new mayor of New York City, sources...