Mayoral Removal Powers
What is Governor Kathy Hochul considering doing regarding Mayor Eric Adams amid growing pressure?
Governor Hochul is considering removing New York City Mayor Eric Adams from office amid mounting public pressure. This consideration follows a protest resignation by an official who alleged a quid pro quo situation, alongside growing calls for Adams to resign due to serious corruption allegations involving illegal campaign contributions. Late the previous night, Hochul issued a statement confirming she is examining this unprecedented option in response to the political crisis. The situation has created significant momentum against Adams, putting substantial pressure on the Governor to take action as the controversy continues to unfold.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)
CBS News
01:48 - 02:04
What unprecedented power does Governor Hochul have regarding Mayor Adams?
Governor Hochul possesses the extraordinary authority to potentially ask Mayor Adams to resign or even remove him from office directly amid corruption allegations. This power is unprecedented in New York State's more than 230-year history, making it a remarkable constitutional authority that has never been exercised before. The situation has created significant political tension as the governor weighs this dramatic option while facing pressure from the public and city officials calling for Adams to step down.
Watch clip answer (00:18m)
CBS News
00:52 - 01:10
What power does New York Governor Kathy Hochul have regarding Mayor Eric Adams amid corruption charges?
Governor Hochul has the legal authority to remove Mayor Adams from office, though this power has never been exercised in New York's 235-year history. There was one historical precedent when Franklin Roosevelt was preparing to remove Mayor Jimmy Walker on corruption charges, but Walker resigned before this could happen. This makes Hochul's potential intervention particularly significant as she considers her options in the current situation with Mayor Adams. The unprecedented nature of such a removal underscores the gravity of the corruption allegations facing the mayor.
Watch clip answer (00:30m)
CBS News
01:22 - 01:52
What would happen if Mayor Eric Adams is removed from office?
If Mayor Adams resigns, is removed by the governor, or through action by the inability committee and City Council, Public Advocate Jumani Williams would become the interim mayor of New York City. Williams could maintain the current four deputy mayors, allowing them to continue their roles in day-to-day city operations. This leadership transition would provide continuity in government functions while the city prepares for the upcoming election, ensuring essential municipal services continue without disruption during this political transition.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)
MSNBC
05:28 - 05:51
What is Brad Lander's view on Mayor Adams' relationship with Donald Trump?
Comptroller Lander believes Mayor Adams was elected to represent New Yorkers, not to work for Donald Trump. He argues the Justice Department is using potential removal as leverage to make Adams serve Trump's interests rather than the city's needs. Lander points to evidence including Adams' Fox and Friends appearance and the resignation of four deputy mayors who felt compromised by this conflict of loyalty. He emphasizes that city officials should focus on serving New Yorkers by maintaining essential services, not implementing Trump's agenda such as mass deportations.
Watch clip answer (00:39m)MSNBC
04:39 - 05:18
What are protesters demanding from Governor Hochul regarding Mayor Eric Adams?
Protesters gathered outside New York Governor Kathy Hochul's office demanding she remove Mayor Eric Adams from office amid corruption allegations, following the DOJ's decision to drop corruption charges against him. This protest coincided with Governor Hochul meeting with top New York City leaders to discuss potential action against Adams, marking her strongest indication yet that she might consider removing him from office. The situation highlights growing pressure on the governor to address leadership concerns in New York City as the fallout from corruption allegations continues.
Watch clip answer (00:25m)
MSNBC
00:00 - 00:26