Most New Yorkers say Mayor Eric Adams should resign, poll finds

NEW YORK — Most New York City residents want Mayor Eric Adams to resign following his federal indictment on bribery charges, according to a new poll. 
The Marist Poll found 69% of New Yorkers say Adams should step down, and 63% of residents say if he doesn’t, Gov. Kathy Hochul should begin the process of removing him from office.
“We have not fully been able to tell our side of the conversation. Anytime you see what happened last week, there’s going to be a natural reaction. I’ve been in the city a long time,” Adams said when asked about the poll Friday morning. “So let the process play out, let New Yorkers see our response to this whole matter.”
Last week, Adams pleaded not guilty to federal charges of bribery, conspiracy and soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals. Federal prosecutors say his alleged crimes date back nearly a decade, including lavish international trips in exchange for political favors. 
“Once they see both sides of the issue, you’re going to see what I’ve stated over and over again, that I did nothing wrong,” Adams said. 
The mayor has maintained his innocence and his ability to continue running the city, and his legal team wants the judge to sanction prosecutors for allegedly leaking information about the case.
During a status conference earlier this week, the feds said it’s “quite likely” they will file a superseding indictment, possibly with more charges against the mayor and other defendants. Both the prosecution and defense asked for the trial to start in the spring.
While the mayor says he isn’t going anywhere, Hochul does have the power to remove him from office. At which time, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would take over and have 80 days to call for a special election.
“The goal is to keep moving the city forward. The governor has been a great chief executive of the state,” Adams said.  
New York City First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright will resign, according to reports, continuing a wave of departures from the Adams administration.   
“What’s important to me is that those who are here, like my four deputy mayors, they’re able to carry out their portfolio. And that’s what they’re doing,” Adams said when asked about Wright’s reported resignation. 
The deputy mayor did not answer CBS News New York’s questions as she left City Hall at the end of the day Friday.
Wright’s husband, Schools Chancellor David Banks announced his plans to retire at the end of the year, though City Hall later said Banks’ last day is Oct. 16.
Adams was asked if Banks was caught off-guard by the abrupt change.
“No. I think that when I called him, I said this is what I want to do, your handpicked successor, make sure we can have a smooth transition, and he’s a professional,” Adams said.
Before Adams was indicted, Wright and Banks had their phones seized by federal investigators in September. NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban also resigned that month after being raided by federal agents. 

Lori Bordonaro

contributed to this report.