Overview

• Adams said relentless withdrawal rumors and the Campaign Finance Board’s refusal to release matching funds crippled his fundraising, declaring he could not continue his campaign.
• He declined to back a rival and cautioned against what he called radical agendas and shifting positions, urging the next mayor to continue his policies.
• The move narrows the contest to Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa, positioning Cuomo to court Adams’ former supporters as Sliwa insists he will stay in the race.
• Adams had been polling in single digits and lagging in cash after a turbulent term that included a 2024 federal corruption indictment later dismissed under the Trump Justice Department.
• Multiple outlets reported back‑channel talks in which Trump aides and associates, including envoy Steve Witkoff, discussed potential jobs to encourage exits; despite suspending his bid, Adams will still appear on the ballot due to passed deadlines.