NYC Mayor Eric Adams Facing Indictment: The End of the 'Eric Adams Show'?

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Facing Indictment: The End of the 'Eric Adams Show'?

Eric Adams, New York City's second Black mayor, is facing a five-count indictment that could end his political career. Adams has been criticized for his focus on style over substance, his constant overstating of the crime problem, and his seeming lack of interest in governing.

Adams' political persona has been characterized by a swagger that he claimed was good for the city. He built a coalition during the 2021 primary that began with consolidating the Black vote and then pivoted right to win support from more religious Jews and other conservative white voters.

However, as mayor, Adams has failed to address any of the major problems facing the city, while taking extremely hawkish positions on everything from mental illness to protesters at Columbia University.

Many have compared Adams' style and rhetoric to that of Donald Trump, pointing to his anti-elitist messaging and constant overstating of the crime problem for political gain.

With pressure mounting for him to resign, Adams has made it clear he has no intention of doing so, at least for now. If he manages to stay in office, he will face tough opposition in his bid for reelection next year.

The 'Eric Adams Show'

Early in his term, Adams boasted of returning swagger to the mayor's office. He also claimed to be the face of the future of the Democratic Party while making no secret of hopes of running for president. However, swagger alone is not enough to be an effective mayor.

Adams' attention has not been focused on governing, but rather with the idea that he is the star of the “Eric Adams Show.” His mayoralty seemed to be more focused on where he ate and clubs he visited rather than how he addressed policy challenges.

His comments, such as, “I am mayor because God gave me the authority to be mayor,” or “God spoke to my heart and said, ‘You are going to be the mayor January 1, 2022,’” suggest a view of himself as a divine messenger rather than a public servant.

Echoes of Another New Yorker

There is something about Adams that is reminiscent of another prominent politician who grew up in Queens and is not unfamiliar with indictments: Donald Trump. Adams' anti-elitist messaging and constant overstating of the crime problem for political gain are right out of the MAGA and Trump playbook.

New Yorkers have seen almost three full years of the Eric Adams Show, and the latest plot twist may not have been a surprise. But it sure looks like it could lead to the end of the show's run.