Former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Attorney General Letitia James are emerging as significant contenders to replace Mayor Eric Adams, who is facing increasing calls for resignation. According to recent polling conducted by The New York Times and Siena College, a majority of New York City voters are not confident in Adams’ leadership, with 53% indicating they support his resignation amid allegations of federal bribery and fraud. Shockingly, only 26% of respondents expressed satisfaction with his performance as mayor.

This poll, which surveyed 853 voters at the end of October, highlights a troubling trend for Adams, particularly within the Democratic Party. Only 12% of Democratic voters voiced support for his continuation in office, while Cuomo and James garnered 22% and 19% backing, respectively.

Adams’ popularity among Black voters is similarly dismal. Only 15% of Black Democratic voters indicated they would support him again, raising concerns about his base amidst these controversies.

In response to the calls for his resignation, Adams has remained defiant, asserting his intention to stay in office and promising to address the allegations. In a recent interview on News 12’s “Ask the Mayor,” he stated, “I consistently follow legal standards and look forward to responding to the questions raised by the investigation.” When asked if he would resign if convicted, Adams declined to comment, instead focusing on his commitment to fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to him by voters.

This represents the second unfavorable poll for Adams in recent weeks. A previous Marist College survey indicated that following his indictment, 69% of city residents supported his resignation, although only 47% believed Governor Kathy Hochul should move to remove him.

While Cuomo and James have not yet officially announced their candidacies, their poll numbers indicate a sharp lead over Adams, particularly among Black voters, where Cuomo commands 26% and James holds 21% support.

Alongside the mounting pressures from federal investigations, Adams now faces growing competition within the Democratic Party. On October 22, Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani declared his intention to run for mayor, becoming the fifth challenger to Adams within the party. Other announced candidates include city comptroller Brad Lander, former city comptroller Scott Stringer, state senator Zellnor Myrie, and state assemblywoman Jessica Ramos.