Mayor Eric Adams Talks Crime Reduction and Reelection Amidst Challenges
In a significant interview from Gracie Mansion, Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch addressed the pressing issues surrounding public safety, crime reduction, and the future of New York City. Adams, who has been focusing on improving crime rates since taking office, discussed the impressive decline in major crimes, some of the challenges ahead, and his decision to run for reelection.
Historic Declines in Crime
One of the most notable takeaways from the discussion was the recent decline in crime across New York City. According to Commissioner Tisch, the city has witnessed a historic reduction in crime, with shootings reaching their lowest number ever in the first quarter of 2025. The first quarter saw a significant 34 percent drop in murders, a key metric that the city’s leadership has been heavily focused on. Tisch attributed these successes to a strategy of “smart policing,” a model in which police forces are strategically deployed in areas with the highest incidences of crime. This strategy, combined with an increase in police presence across both subway systems and housing developments, has led to a dramatic decrease in crime rates.
Tisch noted that the decline in subway crime was particularly remarkable, with zero murders reported in the first quarter of 2025, a major achievement since the city had been grappling with subway safety issues for years. The reduction in crime is being hailed as one of the city’s most significant successes since Adams took office.
Public Perception and the Role of the Media
While the statistics are encouraging, Adams acknowledged that the public’s perception of safety often lags behind the reality of the numbers. He stressed that New Yorkers’ feelings of safety are as important as the actual crime figures. According to Adams, the media plays a crucial role in shaping these perceptions. He pointed out that despite the five straight quarters of crime decreases, it’s not always enough to change the public’s mindset, especially when incidents like shootings are still prevalent in the media. The Mayor emphasized that increasing police visibility is key to improving public perception and making New Yorkers feel safer in their daily lives.
The role of the press, he argued, is essential to this shift, highlighting the importance of reporting on the positive trends in crime reduction to give the public a fuller picture. As crime continues to drop, Adams believes that the tide is beginning to shift, and people are starting to feel the impact of the improved public safety policies.
Calls for Change in Criminal Justice Laws
Despite the recent successes, Adams and Tisch also raised concerns about lingering challenges in the criminal justice system, particularly in Albany. Tisch addressed the state’s bail and discovery laws, which, she argued, have created unintended consequences that are exacerbating the city’s recidivism problem. Although crime rates have decreased, these laws have not fully addressed the issues of repeat offenders, something that Adams has been advocating to change for some time.
Tisch explained that while crime levels are now below those of 2018, a key year before the implementation of these laws, the city is still dealing with a rise in repeat offenders. She urged lawmakers to act on these issues during the current budget negotiations, as the city continues to fight for criminal justice reforms that could help mitigate the effects of recidivism.
Mayor Adams Announces Reelection Bid
Amidst his governance of the city, Adams made another major announcement during the interview—he will be running for reelection. However, in a move that surprised some, he confirmed that he would be seeking a second term on the independent line rather than as a Democrat. His decision to run as an independent marks a significant shift in his political strategy, especially considering that he has been a lifelong Democrat.
Adams explained that his decision was made after much deliberation, especially following the dismissal of bribery charges against him earlier in the week. He clarified that the move was not influenced by polling numbers or public opinion but rather a strategic decision to continue his work and message for the people of New York City. He emphasized that despite running on the independent line, he remains committed to the values of public safety and prosperity for working-class New Yorkers—issues he has championed throughout his political career.
When asked about his campaign staff and plans, Adams was confident, asserting that he had always had a strategy in place, even if he had not publicly rolled it out yet. He revealed that his team would be convening soon to officially kick off the campaign. While he did not announce the names of his campaign managers, Adams was firm in his belief that he was the only candidate with a proven track record of success for the city.
Reflecting on Mistakes and Looking Forward
The conversation took a more personal turn when Adams reflected on his journey as a public figure. He admitted to having trusted people he should not have in the past, a decision that led to some regret. However, Adams took this opportunity to apologize to New Yorkers, acknowledging that, like any imperfect person, he has learned from his mistakes. He expressed that his focus is on the future, particularly on continuing to push forward with his vision for a safer and more prosperous New York City.
In closing, Mayor Adams and Commissioner Tisch emphasized that their focus will remain on improving the quality of life for New Yorkers, with crime reduction and affordability at the forefront of their agenda. As Adams enters his reelection campaign, he remains committed to his vision for a stronger, safer city. His success in managing crime and his plans for the future will be critical to shaping his legacy as New York City’s mayor.