New York City politics is never boring, and the upcoming 2025 mayoral election is already shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable races in recent history. Mayor Eric Adams, despite heavy criticism, scandals, and even rumors about federal job offers, has made it very clear: he’s staying in the race and seeking re-election.
In a passionate press conference last week, Adams dismissed speculations that he was being pressured to step aside. He boldly declared that he’s the only candidate strong enough to defeat Democratic socialist nominee Zohran Mamdani, while also taking sharp jabs at his rivals, Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa.
But what does Adams’ decision really mean for New York City, and how will it impact the already crowded race? Let’s break down everything you need to know.
Who is Eric Adams?
Eric Adams is a former police officer, Brooklyn borough president, and now the 110th mayor of New York City, elected in 2021. He built his campaign around being a working-class leader who understood crime, housing, and inequality.
While Adams entered office with high hopes, his first term hasn’t been easy. Rising crime rates, housing affordability issues, and clashes with progressive Democrats have defined much of his tenure. Still, he argues that his experience and street-level perspective set him apart from other candidates.
Why Is Adams Staying in the Race?
Over the past month, rumors swirled that Adams was considering dropping out. Some reports even suggested that allies of President Donald Trump offered him a federal job—possibly an ambassadorship—if he left the mayoral race.
Adams strongly rejected those claims, saying:
“I didn’t come this far to quit. I’m in this race to win, and I’m the only one who can stop Mamdani from taking this city backwards.”
This defiant statement highlights Adams’ core strategy: position himself as the moderate alternative between a progressive like Mamdani and establishment figures like Cuomo.
The Main Rivals in the 2025 Election
1. Zohran Mamdani (Democrat)
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A 33-year-old democratic socialist and state assemblyman from Queens.
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Represents a new wave of progressive energy similar to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
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Advocates for rent control, free public transit, and taxing the rich.
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Currently leading in the polls, especially among younger voters and working-class communities.
2. Andrew Cuomo (Independent)
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The former governor of New York trying to make a comeback after resigning in 2021 amid scandal.
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Running as an independent, pitching himself as a “steady hand” against Mamdani’s progressivism.
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Despite controversies, Cuomo still has name recognition and an established donor base.
3. Curtis Sliwa (Republican)
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The Guardian Angels founder and longtime conservative voice in NYC politics.
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Ran against Adams in 2021 and lost, but still commands support among right-leaning voters.
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Campaigning on law-and-order issues and opposition to progressive policies.
With four major contenders, the 2025 race could split the vote in unpredictable ways.
Polling and Public Sentiment
As of early September 2025, polling shows:
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Zohran Mamdani leading with strong support among progressives.
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Cuomo attracting moderate Democrats who are uneasy about Mamdani’s policies.
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Adams trailing but still holding a loyal base among working-class voters and Black New Yorkers.
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Sliwa consolidating Republican voters but facing the same uphill battle Republicans always face in NYC.
The big challenge for Adams is proving he still has enough credibility after years of criticism to unify voters against Mamdani.
Adams’ Strategy for Re-Election
Adams is shaping his campaign around a few key themes:
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Working-Class Identity
He often calls himself “the blue-collar mayor,” highlighting his background in the NYPD and his rise from poverty. This resonates with many New Yorkers who feel disconnected from elite politics. -
Public Safety
Despite criticism, Adams insists crime has improved under his watch. He argues his law enforcement background makes him the only candidate who truly understands public safety. -
Attacking Rivals
Recently, he called Mamdani and Cuomo “two spoiled brats” who don’t understand real struggles. This rhetoric is risky, but Adams believes it will appeal to voters tired of political elites.
The Role of National Politics
It’s unusual for a local mayoral race to get national attention, but Adams’ candidacy is wrapped up in larger political narratives:
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Trump’s Alleged Offer: Reports of Trump allies offering Adams a federal role show how high the stakes are. A Mamdani victory could embolden progressives nationwide, something conservatives want to avoid.
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Democratic Party Divide: The battle between Mamdani’s left-wing base and centrist Democrats mirrors larger fights happening across the country.
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Independent Momentum: With both Cuomo and Adams running as independents, this race is also testing whether voters are ready to break from traditional party lines.
Challenges Facing Adams
Even though Adams insists he’s staying in the race, his path to victory isn’t easy.
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Declining Approval Ratings: Many New Yorkers feel Adams hasn’t delivered on key promises, especially around crime and housing.
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Scandal Rumors: Questions about corruption and management issues continue to shadow his administration.
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Vote Splitting: With Cuomo also in the race, moderate and centrist votes may be divided, leaving Mamdani with a clearer path to victory.
Why This Election Matters for New Yorkers
This isn’t just about who becomes mayor—it’s about the future direction of America’s largest city.
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A Mamdani win would signal a shift toward progressive, socialist-style policies in New York.
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A Cuomo comeback would be seen as redemption and a return to establishment politics.
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An Adams victory would prove that working-class, independent candidates can still survive against party machines.
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A Sliwa upset (though unlikely) would shock the political world by putting a Republican in charge of NYC.
Expert Opinions
Political analysts suggest that Adams’ stubbornness might hurt him more than help:
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Some believe staying in the race divides moderates, indirectly boosting Mamdani.
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Others argue that Adams’ working-class message could still resonate enough to surprise in November.
In either case, his decision ensures this election remains one of the most-watched local races in America.
Conclusion
Mayor Eric Adams has made his choice—he’s not stepping down, not taking any federal offers, and not bowing to pressure. He’s staying in the race to fight for another term.
Whether voters see him as a fighter for the people or a stubborn politician refusing to let go will ultimately decide his fate.
One thing is certain: with Mamdani, Cuomo, Adams, and Sliwa all in the mix, New York City is headed toward a mayoral election like no other.
