Mamdani Reacts to Eric Adams’ Exit, Declares “A New Day is Coming”

Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has reacted to Mayor Eric Adams’ announcement that he will not seek re-election, framing the decision as a turning point for the city and a victory for grassroots politics.

Mamdani criticized Adams’ record in office, accusing him of failing working-class New Yorkers.

“Four years ago, he ran on a promise to working-class New Yorkers to deliver both safety and justice, to bring the voices of the outer boroughs into City Hall. Instead, he raised their rents, slowed their buses, and cut funding for their schools, libraries, and childcare,” Mamdani said. “A city that was already hard has become nearly impossible for those who call it home. But a new day is coming.”

The candidate highlighted the strength of his grassroots movement, which he described as the largest in the city’s history.

“Over the past year, tens of thousands of you have built the biggest grassroots campaign our city has ever seen. You have knocked on millions of doors, all to make the city affordable. In just over five weeks, we will turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas, and deliver a government every New Yorker can be proud of,” he declared.

Mamdani also directed remarks at former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has been linked to behind-the-scenes efforts in the mayoral race.

“To Andrew Cuomo, you got your wish. You wanted Trump and your billionaire friends to help you clear the field. But don’t forget, you wanted me as your opponent in the primary too. And we beat you by 13 points. Looking forward to doing it again on November 4th. Hope you’re well,” Mamdani said.

With just over a month to Election Day, Mamdani is seeking to position himself as the candidate of affordability, equity, and grassroots power in what is shaping up to be one of New York City’s most consequential mayoral races in recent history.