Prominent Lawyer Enters N.Y.C. Mayor’s Race Against Adams
Renowned lawyer and civil rights activist Maya Wiley has officially entered the race for Mayor of New York City, challenging former NYPD captain Eric Adams in the upcoming Democratic primary. Wiley, who has served as counsel to Mayor Bill de Blasio and as a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC, is positioning herself as a progressive alternative to Adams, who has been criticized for his tough-on-crime approach.
Wiley, a graduate of Columbia Law School, has a long history of advocating for social justice and civil rights. She has worked for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Open Society Foundations. In her campaign announcement, Wiley highlighted her commitment to addressing systemic racism, economic inequality, and police reform.
In a statement, Wiley said, “I’m running for mayor because I believe we can and must do better. We need a city where everyone can thrive, not just survive. We need a city where every New Yorker feels safe, not just some of us. And we need a city where every child has the opportunity to succeed, not just a lucky few.”
Wiley’s entry into the race adds a new dynamic to the already crowded field of candidates vying to succeed Mayor de Blasio, who is term-limited and cannot run for re-election. Other candidates include former presidential candidate Andrew Yang, city comptroller Scott Stringer, and Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.
Adams, a moderate Democrat who has positioned himself as a law-and-order candidate, has faced criticism from progressives for his support of the NYPD and his opposition to calls to defund the police. Wiley has positioned herself as a more progressive alternative, advocating for redirecting funds from the police department to social services and community programs.
The race for Mayor of New York City is shaping up to be a contentious and closely watched contest, with issues of policing, economic inequality, and racial justice at the forefront. Wiley’s entry into the race adds a new perspective and voice to the conversation, and her experience as a lawyer and civil rights activist could make her a formidable contender.
As the campaign heats up, all eyes will be on Wiley and Adams as they vie for the support of New York City voters. With the primary election scheduled for June 22, the race is sure to be one of the most closely watched political contests in the country.