First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright is expected to step down from her role on Friday, according to multiple reports.
Resignation Amid Ongoing Investigations
Her resignation comes a month after federal authorities searched her home as part of a larger investigation into Mayor Eric Adams’ administration and two days after her new husband, Schools Chancellor David Banks, decided to skip out on his job early.
It’s the latest high-profile resignation to rock the Adams administration, in the ongoing fallout from a string of FBI raids and phone seizures, followed by the historic indictment of Adams on corruption charges on Sept. 25.
Background
Wright joined the Adams administration in 2022, initially as deputy mayor of strategic initiatives, as part of an all-female deputy mayor lineup the mayor proudly announced as one of his first moves.
She became first deputy mayor in 2023, overseeing broader mayoral initiatives and agencies including the budget office and finance department. Before coming to City Hall, Wright had been president and CEO of the United Way of New York City for about 10 years, and prior to that held the same roles for the Abyssinian Development Corporation.
Resignation and Potential Replacements
The New York Post first reported on her planned resignation and Gothamist wrote that her resignation letter could be submitted to Adams as soon as Friday, though the exact timing of her departure is uncertain.
Pix11 reported that Wright told members of the administration she was upset over how her now-husband Banks had been pushed out ahead of his planned retirement at the end of this year.
Meanwhile, Politico reported that a source said “she was forced out.”
Amaris Cockfield, a spokesperson for Adams declined to comment on Wright’s resignation, saying no statement would be issued ahead of a formal announcement. Wright didn’t respond immediately to a request for comment.
The Post also reported potential replacements for Wright include Anthony Shorris, who served as first deputy mayor under Bill de Blasio; Maria Torres-Springer, the current Deputy Mayor for Economic Development, Housing, and Workforce Development, or Camille Joseph Varlack, the mayor’s chief of staff.” Torres-Springer, Varlack didn’t return requests for comment. Shorris declined to comment.
Conclusion
Wright’s resignation marks another significant development in the ongoing investigation into the Adams administration. As the probe continues, it remains to be seen what other consequences will befall those involved.
FAQs
Why is Sheena Wright resigning? Wright is resigning due to the ongoing investigation into the Adams administration and the search of her home by federal authorities.
What will happen to her role? The exact timing of her departure is uncertain, but potential replacements for Wright include Anthony Shorris, Maria Torres-Springer, and Camille Joseph Varlack.
What is the significance of Wright’s resignation? Wright’s resignation marks another significant development in the ongoing investigation into the Adams administration, which has already led to the indictment of Mayor Eric Adams and the resignation of several other officials.
What is the current status of the investigation? The investigation is ongoing, with several officials already raided, served subpoenas, or stepped down, and more charges potentially forthcoming.
