The Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, has pulled out of the re-election race, announcing his decision just weeks ahead of election day. His withdrawal was made public on Sunday through a video message shared on social media, accompanied by the classic track My Way.
Adams, who had been trailing in opinion polls, initially secured office as a Democrat but entered the race for a second term as an independent. His campaign had already been under strain following federal corruption charges — allegations that were later dropped by the Trump administration after he agreed to cooperate in immigration-related operations, The Guardian reported.
In the video statement, filmed on the steps of the mayor’s residence beside a framed photo of his late mother, Adams admitted he could not put together a viable path to victory. He attributed this to “constant media speculation about my future” as well as the city’s campaign finance board’s decision to withhold matching funds.
He further conceded that accusations of corruption had shaken public confidence in him. “I was wrongfully charged because I fought for this city,” Adams said, while insisting the charges over alleged illegal campaign donations and overseas-funded luxury travel were baseless.
Only in America. Only in New York.
Thank you for making my story a reality. pic.twitter.com/efHuyBnITJ— Eric Adams (@ericadamsfornyc) September 28, 2025
Race Now a Three-Way Contest
Adams’ withdrawal clears the way for a three-way contest to decide the leadership of America’s largest city. The remaining contenders are Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, former governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.
