NYC Comptroller Brad Lander Threatens to Remove Mayor Eric Adams Without Governor’s Approval

NEW YORK – City Comptroller Brad Lander has issued a strong warning to Mayor Eric Adams, threatening to initiate the process of removing him from office without the involvement or approval of New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Lander is demanding that the mayor take immediate action to replace half of his top aides in the wake of mass resignations that have shaken the Adams administration.

In a statement, Lander called on the mayor to present a comprehensive plan for replacing the aides, saying the current instability in the mayor’s office is undermining the city’s governance. Should Adams fail to act, Lander has signaled his readiness to convene an Inability Committee—a body designed to determine whether the mayor is fit to remain in office.

The Inability Committee would be composed of five influential figures within the city government:

1. City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams – The Speaker would play a central role in evaluating the mayor’s capacity to lead.
2. Corporation Counsel – The city’s chief legal advisor, ensuring the process follows proper legal procedures.
3. Brad Lander, City Comptroller – Lander would use his financial oversight powers to assess whether the mayor’s leadership is hindering the city’s stability.
4. A Deputy Mayor Selected by Eric Adams – The deputy mayor chosen by Adams would provide insight from within the administration.
5. Borough President with Longest Consecutive Service – Currently Donovan Richards of Queens, this individual would represent the interests of the borough and have a voice in the decision-making process.

Lander’s move to push for a removal process bypassing Governor Hochul’s authority signals a growing frustration with Adams’ leadership, particularly amid a wave of resignations and challenges to his administration. The Comptroller’s call to action underscores the power struggle unfolding within New York City’s government as both City Hall and the City Council grapple with the fallout from Adams’ controversial leadership decisions.

If the committee is formed, its findings could lead to a serious effort to remove the mayor from office, potentially destabilizing the city at a time when it is already grappling with numerous issues.