New York City Mayor Eric Adams is currently grappling with a five-count federal indictment, and though he has publicly stated that he does not intend to resign, speculation is growing about the possibility of his suspension from office.

If Adams leaves office, Public Advocate Jumane Williams could step in as a replacement and serve as acting mayor for a maximum of 80 days, pending a special election, as the Washington Examine reports.

Williams, 48, was first elected public advocate in 2019 following a special election. His background includes extensive community organizing, notably as a community organizer at Greater Flatbush Beacon School and as the executive director of NYS Tenants & Neighbors. His focus on affordable housing has been a central part of his advocacy work over the years.

Public Advocate’s Role and Background

As the public advocate, Williams has a range of responsibilities. He oversees city agencies, introduces and co-sponsors legislation, and appoints board members to key municipal bodies.

Prior to becoming the public advocate, Williams served on the New York City Council, where he built a reputation for his focus on police reform and efforts to combat gun violence.

Williams has long been a supporter of the Cure Violence program, an initiative aimed at reducing street-level violence through community intervention.

One of his key contributions to New York City politics was his role in establishing the NYPD’s Office of Inspector General in 2013. This office is tasked with investigating complaints against the police, though it has no authority to enforce the recommendations it makes.

Williams and His Stance on Policing

Williams' political career has been closely associated with the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, particularly in his advocacy for changes to the policing system in New York. In 2020, Williams actively participated in BLM protests, calling for reforms and budget cuts to the NYPD. This stance has earned him both praise and criticism from different parts of the political spectrum.

Some, like former mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, have been particularly vocal in their criticism of Williams’ potential ascension to the mayor’s office. Sliwa, a strong supporter of law enforcement, has expressed concerns about how Williams' leadership might affect the NYPD’s ability to function. “This guy hates the cops, hates America. The police will no longer be able to function…” Sliwa said, underscoring his belief that Williams would weaken the police department.

Limitations as Acting Mayor

If Adams were suspended or stepped down, Williams would take over as acting mayor for up to 80 days, but his powers would be limited during the first nine days of his tenure. During that period, Williams would not have the authority to make local law decisions or appoint or remove mayoral appointees.

Furthermore, Williams would need to quickly set the wheels in motion for a special election. Within three days of taking office, the interim mayor is required to announce the date of the election, and candidates must submit petitions within 12 days of the proclamation.

Williams’ Short Tenure and Responsibilities

Even though Williams’ time as acting mayor would be brief, it would be a pivotal moment in his career and for New York City. For up to 80 days, he would guide the city through its transition until a new mayor is elected. However, given his stance on police reform and budget cuts, his time in office would likely be watched closely by all sides of the political spectrum.

Williams has experience navigating difficult political landscapes, but the challenges of overseeing New York City in an acting capacity would present a unique test. His critics will focus on his association with the BLM movement and his advocacy for reducing the NYPD’s budget, while his supporters are likely to point to his long-standing focus on community-driven solutions and his experience in local government.

Next Steps in New York City Politics

For now, Mayor Adams remains in office, and he has given no indication that he plans to resign. However, the federal indictment hanging over him leaves open the possibility of his suspension, which would put Williams at the helm of the city.

Williams, who has spent years advocating for reforms in affordable housing, police oversight, and violence prevention, would likely bring his activist background to the role of interim mayor. His leadership during this interim period could reshape the direction of the city, even though his tenure would be limited.

In the meantime, New York City prepares for the uncertainty of what could be a rapidly changing political landscape. The city awaits further developments in Adams’ case and the potential rise of Jumaane Williams as acting mayor.

Conclusion

In the event that Mayor Eric Adams is suspended due to his indictment, Jumaane Williams, the current public advocate, will step in as acting mayor.

Williams’ background as a community organizer and his focus on police reform will define his brief tenure, but with limited powers during the first nine days, his role as interim mayor will be closely scrutinized.

The transition would last a maximum of 80 days, ending with a special election to determine the city's new leader. Williams' leadership style and vision for the city will be critical during this brief but crucial time for New York City.