Submitted to NYC Newswire for Distribution by Cindy Black Lifelong New Yorker
Innocent Until Proven Guilty
Recent calls for Mayor Eric Adams to resign have become increasingly loud, but let’s take a step back and examine the situation through a fair and just lens. At the core of our justice system is a fundamental principle: innocent until proven guilty. Yet, in today’s politically charged environment, this cornerstone of fairness is often disregarded, especially when it comes to public figures. Adams has been subjected to intense scrutiny, with opponents and factions seizing on allegations as an excuse to demand his resignation. This is a reckless overreach, particularly when no evidence has been presented to prove any wrongdoing.
Let’s be clear: Adams has dedicated his career to serving New York City. As a former police officer, Borough President, and now mayor, he has consistently worked to improve the safety and well-being of New Yorkers. While he has ruffled feathers in the process, particularly among those with vested political interests, this is no reason to prematurely push him out of office.
Political Rivals Leading Call for Resignation
The calls for resignation aren’t just based on a rush to judgment—they are political hits. Adams has clearly angered someone or some group in the political machine. His policy decisions, including reforms in policing and affordable housing, have not always aligned with entrenched interests. Is it surprising that, in the heat of a potential political rivalry, people would jump at the opportunity to bring him down without due process? We expect Brad Lander, Zellnor Myrie, and Jumaane Williams to call for his resignation, as it would clear their path to a mayoral run. What they don’t realize is that they could face the same fate when it’s their turn.
We’ve seen this playbook before: a high-profile figure becomes the target of allegations, and before any real investigation can occur, opposition forces demand their head. It’s a cynical tactic. Political opponents, particularly those eyeing the mayoral seat, are quick to capitalize on the situation, using it as an opportunity to push their own candidates forward. But this isn’t about justice—it’s about power.
Weathered Crises
Eric Adams’ tenure as mayor has not been without its challenges, but he has weathered crises like the ongoing migrant influx, crime rates, and housing shortages with determination and resilience. New York City is a complex and diverse metropolis, and no leader can please every faction. However, Adams has earned the right to complete his term and continue his work. To oust him before any formal charges are brought would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the integrity of our legal and democratic systems.
Instead of calling for his resignation based on unproven allegations, we should allow the legal process to run its course. If Adams is found guilty of any wrongdoing, then, and only then, should we have a conversation about his position as mayor. Until that point, the public and the media should refrain from taking sides in what seems to be a politically motivated attack.
In the end, we must remember that no one is above the law—but no one should be beneath it, either. Eric Adams deserves the same presumption of innocence that is afforded to every citizen. Anything less would be a miscarriage of justice, and it’s imperative that we reject this rush to judgment for the sake of New York’s democratic integrity.
Let’s not forget that Donald Trump is running to be the President of the United States, while having 39 indictments lingering over him, and he’s neck and neck with VP Kamala Harris. Where’s the energy against Trump from these same people who are going so hard against Eric Adams?
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