By: Ilana Siyance
Since winning the Democratic Mayoral Primary three weeks ago, Eric Adams has risen in stature not just in New York, but all across the country. The Brooklyn borough president and former police captain found favor with many Democrats nationally, who seem eager to hear his stance, as gun violence continues to shake the country.
As reported by the NY Times, congressional representatives from Michigan, Chicago, Los Angeles and even Florida have been tuning in to hear Adam’s suggestions. Mr. Adams has already met with President Joe Biden and with Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House. He has stood side by side with Gov. Andrew Cuomo to discuss combating gun violence. He appeared with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand to endorse her plan for federal gun trafficking legislation.
“He has the commanding playbook for the moment,” said Donna Brazile, a former acting chair of the Democratic National Committee, referring to Adams. Indeed, he delivers precisely the package needed for today’s set of challenges. Even before officially winning the primary, Adams had boldly declared himself, the “face of the new Democratic Party”. He is an African American, who grew up in poverty, was beat up by the police, who joined the force to make a change, and who simultaneously scoffs the movement to ‘defund the police’ believing in the power of law enforcement to enhance public safety. He might have what it takes to combat inequality without compromising public safety.
Some party leaders and Democratic lawmakers say Mr. Adams should be a model for how to discuss issues related to crime and justice. “He’s a unique messenger carrying a message that we should all be carrying,” said Democratic NY Representative Thomas Suozzi.
Mr. Adams believes it is not conflicting to want safety and stability, but also to reign in police misconduct. “Adams gives you a way to talk about crime and civil and human rights in the same sentence,” said political strategist David Axelrod.
As the probable next mayor of the nation’s largest city, Adams has already made a big splash nationally. The question of whether his stardom will endure, will depend on how he serves if given the platform.
“Eric is always going to leverage whatever political capital he has on behalf of the city,” said Evan Thies, a spokesman for Mr. Adams. The spokesman added that Adams will also “talk to mayors who are struggling with the same problems across the country, and members of Congress who are facing tough re-elections or candidates who are running for office outside of New York.”
