Eric Adams Quits NYC Mayoral Race Ahead of November Polls

New York, September 29: New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced Sunday that he is withdrawing from his struggling reelection campaign, leaving just 37 days until the November mayoral election. Despite his exit, political analysts say the move may be too late to significantly alter the race outcome.

Adams, 65, faced declining poll numbers and difficulties raising campaign funds. He had consistently placed fourth in a four-candidate field that includes Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist and current frontrunner, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Mamdani, 33, is leading most polls by double digits, suggesting that even if Adams’ supporters switched to Cuomo, 67, it would likely be insufficient to close the gap. Adams also missed the September 11 deadline to remove his name from the ballot, so voters will still see him listed.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Political strategist Evan Roth Smith noted, “If it had happened a few weeks or months ago, it would have represented a real shot in the arm for Andrew Cuomo’s effort to beat Mamdani. But now, it’s too little too late.”

Mamdani responded to Adams’ withdrawal in a video, turning attention to Cuomo. “Andrew Cuomo, you got your wish… But don’t forget, you wanted me as your opponent in the primary, too. And we beat you by 13 points,” Mamdani said, referencing the recent Democratic primary.

Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, 71, has confirmed he will not drop out despite pressure. “The only way would be if something unfortunate happened to me, like me being hit by a Mack truck,” he told that in July, emphasizing he is committed to staying in the race.

Adams’ withdrawal may influence campaign fundraising, with several donors reportedly reaching out to a PAC backing Cuomo after the announcement. However, strategists caution that the move could also work against Cuomo by fueling narratives of outside influence, including former President Donald Trump’s involvement.

Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf warned, “Cuomo has very high negatives. It will be hard for him to make a comparative argument. Unless voters really understand who Mamdani is, why would they vote against him?”

Adams’ exit marks a pivotal moment in the New York City mayoral race, but analysts agree that the November election remains firmly in Mamdani’s favor unless major shifts occur in the remaining weeks.