What happens if NYC Mayor Eric Adams steps down or is removed from office?
Although Adams has made it clear he doesn’t plan to resign, the New York City Charter provides two paths that could remove him from office.
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Mayor Eric Adams is facing mounting pressure amid a federal indictment and calls for his resignation. As questions swirl about what happens next, many New Yorkers are wondering: Can he be forced out? And what would happen if he leaves office?
Although Adams has made it clear he doesn’t plan to resign, the New York City Charter provides two paths that could remove him from office. According to the charter, which lays out the city’s rules and procedures, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would temporarily step in as acting mayor if Adams steps down.
The City Charter states that if the mayor’s office becomes vacant due to resignation, removal, or other reasons, the public advocate assumes the role. Within three days of the vacancy, Williams would need to set a date for a special election, allowing voters to choose a new mayor. If Williams is unable to serve, the role would go to City Comptroller Brad Lander.
But could Adams be removed even if he doesn’t want to step down? The answer is yes, and there are two key options:
Governor intervention: Gov. Kathy Hochul has the authority to intervene under Section 9 of the City Charter. Hochul could file charges, and after a hearing, she could decide to remove the mayor from office.
Inability committee: The second option is a special "inability committee," a group of city officials including the City Council speaker and the city comptroller, who can decide whether the mayor is still able to fulfill his duties. If the committee votes against Adams, the City Council would need a two-thirds majority to approve his removal.
Despite the indictment, Adams can continue serving as mayor unless Hochul or the inability committee takes action. If Adams does leave office, the special election would allow any candidate, regardless of political party, to run for the position.
