New York City Mayor to Receive Medical Evaluations, May Be Unable to Fulfill Duties: Spokesperson

The mayor of New York City is preparing for medical examinations, which raises concerns about his ability to fulfill his responsibilities, according to a spokesman on January 26.

“In recent days, Mayor Adams hasn’t been feeling his best. Consequently, this week, the mayor will attend several doctors’ appointments and undergo routine medical assessments,” stated Fabian Levy, a spokesman for Mayor Eric Adams, via the social media platform X.

At 64 years old and a former police officer, Adams will remain in constant communication with staff to ensure city operations continue as planned, although his public engagements will be limited, Levy mentioned.

“New Yorkers can be confident that their local government will consistently serve them each day as our dedicated workforce at City Hall, alongside more than 300,000 employees across various city agencies, remains focused on the most critical issues,” Levy added. “Like every other New Yorker, Mayor Adams is entitled to privacy regarding personal matters, but we will provide updates should he be unable to perform his duties fully on any given day.”

The mayor’s office has not yet responded to requests for additional information regarding the specific symptoms Adams has been experiencing.

Adams secured his position as mayor in 2021 and took office in 2022. He has previously shared that a diabetes diagnosis in 2016 motivated a significant lifestyle change, notably adopting a predominantly vegan diet.

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Mayor Adams usually engages in numerous public events each week. During the week of January 19, he attended the inauguration of President Donald Trump, held a press conference in New York City highlighting the seizure of tens of thousands of illegal firearms during his tenure, and answered questions in the studios of a local station.

As per New York City’s charter, when the mayor is temporarily unable to perform their duties, those powers are transferred to the next official in the line of succession.

The first in line is the public advocate, followed by the city comptroller.

Jumaane D. Williams, 48, a former New York City Council member, currently serves as the public advocate. Brad Lander, 55, another former councilman, holds the position of comptroller.

All three—Adams, Williams, and Lander—are affiliated with the Democratic Party.