In a recent interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson, New York City Mayor Eric Adams voiced his growing disillusionment with the Democratic Party, stating that he feels abandoned by the party he once identified with. The mayor, who represents one of the largest and most diverse cities in the United States, expressed frustration that his political views no longer align with the party’s current direction, emphasizing that it was not he who left the party, but rather the party that had left him.
Adams, who has faced mounting criticism from various factions, particularly over his stance on the migrant crisis, delivered a pointed message.
“People often say, ‘You don’t sound like a Democrat, and you seem to have left the party.’ No, the party left me, and it left working-class people,” he declared.
His comments came in a preview clip shared on X (formerly Twitter) ahead of the full interview that was scheduled to air at 6 p.m. on Carlson’s network.
The mayor’s remarks reflect growing discontent among some centrist and conservative-leaning Democrats who feel the party has shifted too far left, especially on issues that impact the working class. Adams, a Democrat who has consistently represented working-class constituents, suggested that the party’s current priorities have marginalized individuals like him. He expressed particular frustration with how his outspoken position on the migrant crisis has led to backlash within the Democratic Party.
Adams elaborated on his experiences dealing with the surge of migrants in New York City, which he says has been exacerbated by the arrival of individuals linked to violent gangs, particularly from Venezuela. These groups, he claimed, have been contributing to rising crime rates in the city. The mayor’s attempt to secure additional federal aid to address the crisis has reportedly been met with resistance from his own party. Adams recalled a conversation with President Joe Biden, where he was told to “be a good Democrat” after requesting more federal resources to handle the influx of migrants. In his interview with Carlson, Adams lamented that his calls for support from Washington had largely been ignored, leaving him feeling as though he was “at the end of the line.”
In addition to criticizing the Democratic Party’s handling of the migrant crisis, Adams defended his decision to meet privately with former President Donald Trump. He emphasized that, as the mayor of the nation’s largest city, it was his responsibility to engage with the sitting president, regardless of political affiliation. “I’m not going to be warring with the president,” Adams stated, reinforcing his belief in the importance of cooperation over partisan division. He clarified that his administration would work with Trump’s policies on critical issues such as immigration.
Adams’ remarks suggest a shift in his political stance, as he navigates the growing tensions within his party. The mayor’s willingness to criticize his own party, engage with the former president, and voice concerns about federal support for New York City underscores the complexity of his position. As Adams continues to face challenges, particularly on issues like immigration and crime, his political identity is increasingly coming under scrutiny. His comments to Carlson reflect a broader conversation about the future direction of the Democratic Party and its relationship with centrist voices like Adams, who may feel increasingly isolated as the party’s platform evolves.
This interview signals a potential turning point in Adams’ political trajectory, as he weighs the challenges of balancing his city’s needs with the pressures of party politics. As the mayor faces increasing pressure both locally and nationally, it remains to be seen how his relationship with the Democratic Party will evolve and whether his criticisms will resonate with others in the political landscape.
