Fact Check: "Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams skipped the primary to run as an independent."
What We Know
On April 3, 2025, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced that he would not participate in the Democratic primary scheduled for June 2025. Instead, he declared his intention to run as an independent candidate in the general election set for November 2025. This decision was influenced by several factors, including his low approval ratings and a recent bribery scandal that had significantly impacted his campaign efforts (New York Times, AP News).
In a video announcement, Adams cited the prolonged nature of his legal challenges as a reason for his withdrawal from the primary, stating that the "false accusations were held over me," which hindered his ability to campaign effectively (New York Times). His decision to run as an independent is seen as a strategic move to distance himself from the Democratic Party, which has been increasingly critical of his leadership and his relationship with former President Donald Trump (AP News).
Analysis
The claim that Mayor Eric Adams skipped the Democratic primary to run as an independent is supported by multiple credible sources. Both the New York Times and AP News confirm that Adams made this announcement in a video, where he expressed his intention to appeal directly to all New Yorkers as an independent candidate.
The sources are reliable and well-regarded in the field of journalism, providing detailed accounts of the political climate surrounding Adams' decision. The New York Times is known for its in-depth political reporting, while AP News is recognized for its factual and unbiased news coverage. Both outlets highlight the implications of Adams' decision, noting that it may weaken his chances of re-election given New York City's predominantly Democratic electorate.
Adams' withdrawal from the primary is also contextualized within the larger narrative of his declining approval ratings and the backlash against his administration, particularly regarding his ties to Trump and the bribery allegations (New York Times, AP News). This context adds depth to the claim, illustrating the political pressures that influenced his decision.
Conclusion
The claim that incumbent Mayor Eric Adams skipped the primary to run as an independent is True. The evidence from credible news sources confirms that Adams officially announced his decision to forgo the Democratic primary in favor of an independent candidacy, driven by his legal troubles and declining support within the Democratic Party.
