As federal investigations swirl and top aides walk away, Mayor Eric Adams has repeated a mantra, “I’m stepping up, not stepping down,” arguing that New Yorkers aren’t interested in that news but about what he’s delivering for them.
Residents Share Mixed Views on Mayor Eric Adams
Talking with New Yorkers over the last week in Harlem, Edenwald in the Northeast Bronx and St. Albans in Southeast Queens — three Black voter hubs where Adams was the overwhelming winner in his last mayoral race — not everyone agreed with the city’s second Black mayor’s self-assessment even as more people than not said they still stood behind him.
Concerns about Corruption and Police
East Harlem resident Darryl Williamson told THE CITY, referring to the investigations, “Yes, we do care about that. Don’t sweep it under the rug. Don’t speak for me.” Williamson sat with a neighbor in foldable chairs in front of his apartment building, where he’s lived for the last 14 years, reflecting on a mayor who ran for office touting his 22 years as an NYPD officer.
He voted for Adams in the 2021 mayoral race “not just because he was a Black man, but because I thought he was a good man. It’s a difference and [he] just let everybody down,” Williamson said. He added that “We got more immigrants over here than we can deal with” — seeming to echo Adams’ rhetoric at times about how the migrant crisis would “destroy New York City.”
Residents Feel Underserved
While waiting with her partner for two of her children to come out of school in Edenwald, Alice Penrose, 35, said that she sat out the 2021 election because she was tired of politicians’ empty talk about “change” but planned to turn out in 2025 to vote against Adams.
“I don’t like him. I do not like the man,” said Penrose, adding that she receives “nine [hundred dollars] and some change” a month in SNAP food benefits while some migrants are now receiving cash benefits from the city.
Support for Mayor Adams
Many other residents, however, voiced their support for Adams and his job performance.
“The police engage with people. There is more interaction with the public,” said George Friscoberry, 69, who has lived in the area since immigrating from Jamaica more than 30 years ago. “I feel like they’re trying to tarnish his reputation. The mayor tries to improve the situation and people come out and try to bash him.”
Conclusion
The mixed views of New Yorkers on Mayor Eric Adams reflect the complex challenges he faces in office. While some residents are concerned about corruption and police practices, others appreciate his efforts to improve community relations and deliver services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main concerns of New Yorkers regarding Mayor Eric Adams?
A: Corruption, police practices, and a perceived lack of investment in schools, drug treatment programs, and housing.
Q: How do residents feel about the federal investigations into the Adams administration?
A: Some residents are concerned about the investigations, while others feel they are an attempt to tarnish the mayor’s reputation.
Q: Are there any residents who still support Mayor Adams?
A: Yes, many residents continue to support the mayor and his job performance, citing improvements in community relations and police practices.
