Kathy Hochul, Who Has the Power to Remove Eric Adams, Says: ‘Disturbing’

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul broke her silence Thursday on the indictment of New York Mayor Eric Adams as she faces a decision on whether to use her power to oust him.

After Adams was indicted Thursday on five criminal counts, Hochul now has the power to remove him from office. Adams does not have to go to trial or be convicted to exercise this power.

“I have carefully reviewed the indictment issued by the United States Department of Justice. This indictment is the latest in a disturbing series of events that have understandably contributed to a sense of anxiety among many New Yorkers,” Hochul said in a statement.

The statement gave no indication whether Hochul intended to move to remove Adams.

“My goal is to protect the people of New York and ensure stability in the city,” Hochul said. “As I review my options and responsibilities as Governor of New York, I expect that the Mayor will take the next several days to review the situation and find an appropriate path forward to ensure that New Yorkers are well served by their leaders. We must give New Yorkers the confidence that at every level of government there is consistent, responsible leadership.”

The two elected officials often appeared together at events in New York, including parades and press conferences.

Adams, who was first elected mayor in 2021, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, federal program bribery and receiving campaign contributions from foreign nationals; one count of wire fraud; two cases of asking for donations by a foreigner; and one count of bribery on Thursday. He is the first mayor in the city’s history to face criminal charges while in office.

Several elected officials have called for Adams to resign, including New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

“I don’t understand how Mayor Adams can continue to govern New York,” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on X. “The flood of resignations and vacancies threatens the functioning of the government. Continued investigations will make it impossible to recruit and retain qualified administration. For the good of the city, he should resign.”

Adams has resisted calls to resign in the face of federal charges.

“From there, my lawyers will take care of the case and I can take care of the city,” Adams said. “My day won’t change.”

On Friday, Adams arrived in federal court in Manhattan to be arraigned on five counts against him.

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