Eric Adams withdrew from the New York election, and Cuomo will face Mamdani.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced his withdrawal from the re-election race amid growing pressure to clear the political field and prevent the arrival of socialist jihadist Zohran Mamdani to City Hall.

The decision comes as Adams was in fourth place in the polls, behind Mamdani, former governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.

In an official video, Adams stated: "It has been an honor to be your mayor", highlighting his achievements during his first term, such as reducing crime, creating housing, and managing the migration crisis.

However, he acknowledged that he could not continue his campaign. Despite leaving the race, he did not offer his support to any of the remaining candidates, and issued warnings against "radical ideals" and politicians who have changed their stance, clearly referring to Mamdani. 

Adams's withdrawal comes after weeks of rumors and negotiations, including a recent interview with Reverend Al Sharpton, where he hinted at the possibility of stepping down.

The mayor also admitted that his candidacy had been affected by public perception after he was accused of federal corruption, although the case was dismissed by the Department of Justice. Adams stated in his video: "Many are skeptical after my historic indictment"

Sources reported that both the White House and Trump's team suggested to Adams and Sliwa that they withdraw from the race, fearing that a divided election would ensure Mamdani's victory. 

Despite suspending his campaign, Adams will remain on the November 4 ballot, as will fellow independent Jim Walden, who recently dropped out of the race.

The presence of multiple candidates on the ballot has caused unease among moderate and conservative sectors that Mamdani could achieve victory through vote splitting. Polls indicate that Andrew Cuomo is the only one with a real chance of defeating the socialist, as long as there is a direct contest between the two.

Adams concludes his term after a tenure marked by ups and downs. He came to power in 2022, after the COVID-19 pandemic, and quickly faced a migration crisis with thousands of undocumented immigrants arriving in the city from the southern border.

Thanks to joint policies with the Trump administration, arrivals were reduced from 4,000 people per week to fewer than 100. Also, under his administration, crime dropped significantly, with shootings at historic lows and more than 23,000 illegal firearms removed from the streets.

In terms of housing, Adams promoted the protection of more than 400,000 affordable units and encouraged the construction of up to one million new homes. Nevertheless, his administration was marred by some corruption scandals.

Adams was accused of accepting more than USD 100,000 in illegal contributions and benefits from individuals seeking political favors, including a Turkish official. Although he denied any improper relationship, his case weakened his public image.

Additionally, his closest associates also faced legal troubles. His chief advisor, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, was accused on multiple occasions of bribery and conspiracy, including accepting bribes in the form of seafood and a luxury car.

Another scandal involved Winnie Greco, former advisor and campaign volunteer, who handed a journalist a bag of potatoes filled with cash. Greco was also investigated for using her position to obtain personal benefits and her house was raided by authorities.