
Amidst a tumultuous political landscape, NYC Mayor Eric Adams is preparing to set the agenda for his mayoralty with the upcoming State of the City address at Harlem's Apollo Theater on January 9th. This crucial address comes at a time when Adams is combating low approval ratings and a federal indictment that has led to widespread turmoil within his administration.
With recent months overshadowed by negative press, this speech is seen as Adams' opportunity to reclaim the narrative and remind voters of his administration's achievements. According to a statement obtained by AMNY, Adams boasted, "Whether it's taking thousands of illegal guns off our streets, shattering affordable housing records over and over again, or putting billions of dollars back into the pockets of New Yorkers, our administration has fought every day to create a safer, more affordable city for working-class New Yorkers." He claimed, "New York City is not only back; we are better than ever."
Mayor Adams' upcoming State of the City address will also serve as an unofficial launch for his 2025 re-election campaign, as acknowledged by his office. The setting of the legendary Apollo Theater underscores the importance of this event for Adams, trying to shake off the setbacks he faced last year due to numerous resignations and scandals among his close allies. The recent exodus, as reported by the Daily News, includes the likes of the mayor's chief adviser Ingrid Lewis-Martin and a powerful Adams ally in the NYPD, Jeffrey Maddrey.
However, the revamped administration, now consisting of veteran governmental figures, is suggested to bring newfound professionalism to city governance. Bradley Tusk, a seasoned political strategist, expressed optimism, remarking to the Daily News, "He actually has the most competent professional team he's ever had." Stripped of those "who prioritize internal politics and petty grudges," Tusk surmises that the administration hasn't "been in a better place since Adams took office."
The upcoming trial and Democratic mayoral primary in June further complicate Mayor Adams' bid for re-election. Amid these challenges, the State of the City address is expected to lay out Adams' vision for an even safer and more affordable New York City in both 2025 and in the decades to come, as he aims to persuade New Yorkers he remains the right choice for the city's future.