More than two-thirds of New Yorkers think Mayor Adams should resign in wake of his indictment on federal corruption charges, a new Marist poll shows — with 65% of those surveyed saying they believe Adams broke the law.
The poll results, from a Marist survey of 1,073 NYC residents, were gathered Monday and Tuesday, days after the mayor was indicted on federal charges he accepted and solicited bribes from Turkish government officials and and businessmen in exchange for favors.
The poll shows 69% of voters think Adams should resign, and charts his approval rating at a dismal 26%, down from Marist’s last polling of voters that charted the rating at 37%. Just 11% said they strongly approve of the job he’s doing as mayor.
Calls from progressive and conservative lawmakers for Adams’ resignation followed his indictment, with many saying the mayor can’t successfully lead the city while he’s battling federal charges.
Gov. Hochul, who has the power to remove Adams from office, has said she’s pleased with the resignation of Tim Pearson, a top Adams aide caught up in the federal probes who stepped down Monday, and expects more personnel changes within the administration.
If Adams refuses to step down, 63% of city residents said Hochul should begin the process of removing Adams from his position.
Adams addressed poll numbers outside an appearance at African American Clergy and Elected Officials fish fry in Bed-Stuy, saying it’s a “natural reaction” to his indictment last week.
“They saw one side of the story, so of course, they’re going to have that feeling,” he said of voters. “We’re going to see both sides of the story, and that is what I’m looking forward to sharing with New Yorkers is both sides of the story.”
“It’s a natural reaction for people to feel that way without getting the full depth of what’s taking place here,” he added.
