NYC Mayor Adams Defends Legacy Amidst Heated Mayoral Race

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/2025/09/16/59ea5688-0957-408f-99a3-d2fb1dc79433/adams-mamdani.jpg" alt="Mayor Adams and Zohran Mamdani">

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is standing firm in his reelection bid, despite trailing in the polls. He recently addressed claims of aggressive behavior from supporters of his main rival, Zohran Mamdani. Adams insists his mayoral legacy is secure, comparing himself to legendary figures like LaGuardia.

Adams Accuses Mamdani's Supporters of Harassment

Adams described some of Mamdani's supporters as "mean, arrogant, and nasty," recounting an incident where they reportedly yelled obscenities at him.

Mamdani's campaign responded by criticizing Adams for spreading "dangerous lies" and failing to condemn President Trump's past threats against Mamdani.

Assembly Speaker Heastie to Endorse Mamdani

Adding to the political tension, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie is expected to endorse Mamdani, following Governor Kathy Hochul's endorsement earlier this week.

Hochul's Support for Mamdani, Despite Policy Differences

Governor Hochul explained her endorsement by emphasizing Mamdani's strength of character and his willingness to challenge Donald Trump.

However, Hochul and Mamdani disagree on Mamdani's proposal to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits New York. Hochul believes that such an action lacks legal basis.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo also weighed in, criticizing Mamdani's stance as "rabidly anti-Israel" and lacking legal justification.