By:  Hal C Clarke

A recent poll indicates that a majority of New York City voters would like Mayor Adams to resign if he is indicted in an ongoing federal investigation related to his 2021 campaign. The survey conducted by political consulting firm Slingshot Strategies suggests that 52% of respondents would prefer Adams to step down if charged, while 38% believe he should remain in office during the legal proceedings.

In the hypothetical scenario of Adams leaving office prematurely, the poll reveals that former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who resigned two years ago amid numerous sexual harassment allegations, would be the leading choice to replace him. Cuomo, who is reportedly considering a political comeback, secured the top spot in a nonpartisan special election with 22% support. Other potential candidates included Public Advocate Jumaane Williams (15%) and former Sanitation Commissioner Kathryn Garcia (12%), while 36% remained undecided.

The poll, conducted from December 1 to December 9 with 600 voters, also indicated that Cuomo would emerge victorious under rank-choice voting rules, defeating Williams 64%-36% in a final runoff.

It is worth noting that no charges have been filed against Adams or any other individual in the ongoing FBI investigation into whether the mayor’s campaign benefited from illegal donations routed through Turkey.

This survey follows a recent Quinnipiac University poll that reported Adams’ approval rating dropping to 28%, the lowest ever recorded for a New York City mayor by the university in its 25-year history of querying voters.

Deputy Mayor Fabien Levy dismissed Slingshot’s poll results, describing them as politically motivated attacks. Levy emphasized that Mayor Adams was elected to advocate for working New Yorkers and would continue to do so despite any challenges or public opinion challenges.

In August 2021, as Cuomo faced intensifying calls for him to step down from both political allies and adversaries, he resigned.

The pressure had escalated following an independent investigation led by the New York Attorney General’s office, which substantiated numerous claims of sexual harassment against the governor.

Cuomo, known for his combative political style and handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, had initially resisted calls for his resignation, maintaining his innocence and suggesting a lack of due process in the investigation. However, with key political figures withdrawing their support and facing potential impeachment proceedings, Cuomo ultimately chose to resign.

The resignation marked a significant moment in New York politics, as Cuomo had been a dominant force in the state for over a decade. His leadership during the pandemic, which garnered both praise and criticism, thrust him into the national spotlight. However, the subsequent scandal and investigations eroded his political standing and support.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul assumed the role of governor, making history as the first woman to hold the position in New York. In her initial statements, Hochul emphasized a commitment to transparency, accountability, and fostering a collaborative approach to governance.

As the state navigated the aftermath of Cuomo’s resignation, it raised questions about the future of New York politics.