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Federal prosecutors have indicted New York City Mayor Eric Adams<\/strong><\/a>, marking the first time in the city\u2019s history that a sitting mayor has been charged.<\/p>\n The indictment follows a federal investigation that included the seizure of Adams\u2019 electronic devices and a search of the home of Brianna Suggs<\/strong>, his chief fundraiser, less than a year ago. While details regarding the specific charges against Adams\u2014a retired police captain who promised to rein in crime\u2014are still unclear, prosecutors are expected to outline them on Thursday, according to the New York Times<\/em>.<\/p>\n Adams has maintained his innocence, stating in a video released late Wednesday, \u201cIf I am charged, I am innocent, and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.\u201d But if he steps down or is unable to continue in office, New York City\u2019s Public Advocate, Jumaane Williams<\/strong>, will become the acting mayor.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s everything you need to know about Williams.<\/p>\n Williams is the Public Advocate for New York City, a position he has held since January 2018.<\/p>\n The 48-year-old previously served as a New York State Assemblymember, representing parts of Brooklyn. Williams is known for his progressive views on issues such as affordable housing, criminal justice reform, and social equity. He has been an outspoken advocate for marginalized communities and has worked to ensure government accountability.<\/p>\n Regarding his health, Williams has openly discussed living with Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations. He has candidly addressed his experiences seeking therapy for mental health challenges, as well as his family\u2019s fertility struggles, alongside living with Tourette\u2019s.<\/p>\n The Public Advocate is an elected official in New York City. Established in 1993 as part of the city\u2019s charter revision, the position was created to provide a voice for the public and ensure accountability in city government.<\/p>\n The Public Advocate\u2019s role involves advocating for constituents\u2019 concerns, investigating complaints against city agencies, and proposing legislation. Additionally, the Public Advocate has the authority to introduce bills and can assume the duties of the mayor if the mayor is unable to serve.<\/p>\n Should Adams step down or be unable to continue in office, Williams would serve as acting mayor until a nonpartisan special election is held to fill the position. According to the city charter<\/a>, the acting mayor must announce a date for that election within three days of the mayor leaving office.<\/p>\n William Gerlich<\/strong>, a spokesperson for the public advocate, called news of the Adams\u2019 indictment \u201cincredibly serious.\u201d He said Williams would say more as facts emerge but that \u201cright now, he is focused on how best to ensure that New Yorkers can regain trust, confidence and stability in city government.\u201d<\/p>\n If the Public Advocate is unable to serve, the city comptroller\u2014currently Brad Lander<\/strong>, who is running for mayor\u2014would temporarily assume the role of acting mayor.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Two previous mayors have stepped down, but unlike Adams, none were charged while in office.<\/p>\n Jimmy Walker<\/strong>: Mayor James J. Walker, a flamboyant and nightlife-loving figure known as \u201cBeau James,\u201d held court in Jazz Age New York City but resigned amid a corruption scandal and fled to Europe. He served from 1926 to 1932.<\/p>\n William J. Dwyer<\/strong>: Mayor William O\u2019Dwyer, the only modern mayor aside from Adams to have served as a police officer, resigned months into his second term amid what was described in his obituary as \u201cthe biggest police scandal in the city\u2019s history.\u201d He served from\u00a01946 to 1950.<\/p>\n \n\t\t<\/div>\nWho Is Jumaane Williams?<\/h2>\n
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What Is a Public Advocate?<\/h2>\n
What Happens if Mayor Adams Resigns?<\/h2>\n
Have Other NYC Mayors Stepped Down?<\/h2>\n