Overview

• The incumbent announced his withdrawal in a video, offering no endorsement and warning that electing Zohran Mamdani would bring “chaos.”
• He cited constant media speculation and the Campaign Finance Board’s decision to withhold millions in public funds, as polling showed him under 10% support.
• The November 4 contest now centers on Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, independent Andrew Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa, with observers noting Cuomo could gain if Adams’ supporters shift.
• U.S. outlets had reported talks involving the Trump administration about Adams stepping aside to benefit Cuomo, and President Trump publicly urged a two-way race; Mamdani said wealthy donors would not decide the outcome.
• Adams had skipped the Democratic primary to run as an independent following a 2024 indictment later dropped at the Justice Department’s direction in February 2025.