NEW YORK — With New York Mayor Eric Adams standing in front of him federal bribery, campaign finance and conspiracy chargessome prominent officials are calling on him to resign.
If Adams resigns, New York Public Defender Jumaane Williams would do so immediately become acting mayor until a special election is held to choose a successor.
As acting mayor, Williams would not have done that the full powers of the agency.
Adams has denied the allegations and indicated he plans to serve his full term in office.
Who is Jumaane Williams?
Williams became the New York City Public Advocate in 2019 he won the special election replacing Letitia James, who left office to become New York’s attorney general. He was later elected to a full term.
Williams is one outspoken advocate for mental health careand has been open about his personal struggles with Tourette’s Syndrome and ADHD.
In 2022, Williams launched a campaign for governor and competed on CBS New York Democratic primary debate. Incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul won the nomination over Williams and Representative Tom Suozzi.
In one 2019 interview with CBS News New York’s “The Point with Marcia Kramer,” Williams said housing would be his “number one issue” as a public advocate. He later unleashed heavy criticism on Adams and NYCHA arsenic was found in tap water in a public housing complex in Manhattan.
Williams was elected to the New York City Council in 2010, representing District 45 in Brooklyn.
What does the New York City Public Advocate do?
The New York City Council voted to create the Office of the Public Advocate in 1993. It currently acts as a “watchdog” over city government on behalf of New Yorkers.
According to NYC.gov, “The Office of the Public Advocate assists with complaints and investigations involving government agencies and regulations. From resolving housing complaints to combating agency abuses, the Office helps thousands of New Yorkers each year by increasing transparency and accountability City government.”
The Public Advocate is a non-voting member of the City Council, but can introduce and co-sponsor bills.
Williams is the city’s fifth public advocate, preceded by Corey Johnson (acting), James, Bill de Blasio, Betsy Gotbaum and Mark Green.
