New York Mayor Eric Adams has repeatedly said he is not going anywhere and has no plans to resign, despite mounting investigations and despite news Wednesday night that he will face indictment by federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York as early as Thursday, according to two sources familiar with the matter.

On Wednesday evening, Adams declared he was innocent and would contest the charges.

“We will continue to fight for New Yorkers… I will stay in office, not resign. I have a city to govern, and I will continue to do so,” Adams said at a press event on September 24.

Adams also said he plans to seek re-election next year.

“One year from now, I see myself raising my right hand and being inaugurated as mayor of the city of New York,” Adams said earlier this week.

If the situation changes and Adams resigns or is suspended from office by the governor, who would lead the city and become acting mayor?

The New York City Charter establishes the procedure for filling a vacancy in the office of mayor.

Who becomes acting mayor in New York City when a mayor leaves office?

Under the Charter of the City of New York, the City’s Public Advocate shall become the Acting Mayor and shall temporarily assume the functions of the Mayor in the event of the Mayor’s suspension by the Governor, inability to perform his or her duties, failure to attend the City, or resignation.

If the public attorney is unable to perform his duties, the city treasurer shall assume the position of acting mayor.

Who is the public attorney for the city of New York?

The current public attorney for New York City is Jumaane Williams. According to the city charter, he would assume the position of acting mayor if Eric Adams were to resign or be suspended from office by the governor.

Williams, a former city councilman, has served as a public advocate for the city since winning a special election in 2019.

He ran for Governor of New York in 2022 and lost to Kathy Hochul.

Who is the Comptroller of the City of New York?

Brad Lander is the current New York City Comptroller, a position he has held since his election in 2021. According to the city charter, Lander would become acting mayor if Adams leaves office and Williams is no longer eligible to serve.

Before being elected auditor, Lander served on the city council for twelve years.

Lander has announced that he will run for mayor in 2025.