A powerful response rippled through New York’s political circles as Assemblywoman Nikki Lucas (D-60th District) strongly criticized Comptroller Brad Lander for making what she termed a reckless and unsafe attack on Mayor Eric Adams. During a guest spot on Inside City Hall with Errol Louis, Lander made a remark about rumors involving Mayor Adams and the Jeffrey Epstein files, without citing any proof.
Lander remarked, “I’ve heard some people say that the Mayor is in the Epstein files.” Although Errol Louis quickly distanced himself from the claim on live television, the statement ignited swift controversy.
Mayor Eric Adams has certainly dealt with scrutiny and investigations, but it’s vital to point out that no criminal convictions exist. Allegations must not equate to guilt, and due process remains essential. Carelessly linking the mayor to Epstein’s crimes, particularly with no supporting evidence, signals a far deeper and more worrisome political trend, one where racial overtones, media influence, and political motives combine to weaken legitimate political leadership.
The suggestion, which was immediately walked back by Louis, met immediate and widespread criticism from city leaders and residents, none more fervent than Assemblywoman Lucas. In a statement published by NYC Newswire on Tuesday, Lucas labeled the incident a disturbing new chapter in city politics.
“Comptroller Brad Lander crossed a line by dragging the Epstein files into a baseless accusation against Mayor Adams. Unsubstantiated charges from an elected official are not just reckless, they’re dangerous,” said Lucas.
On Instagram, one commenter wrote, “Thank you for standing up. Brad’s attempt to call it a joke was unacceptable—criticize policy if you must, but this isn’t the way.”
Lucas also stated, “Mayor Adams, as a Black man, endures constant targeted attacks. I refuse to stay quiet while this happens. Brad Lander should answer for his remarks, and I urge leaders like Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and mayoral hopefuls Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo to speak out as well. Failing to condemn this is the same as condoning it.”
Her defense of the mayor found widespread support across social channels, as many noted familiar patterns in the treatment of Black men within politics and by the media.
A Modern-Day Smear Campaign
Observers pointed to similarities with discriminatory tactics from the past. “The treatment of Mayor Adams is reminiscent of a digital lynching,” said an East New York community leader. “It’s the same strategy of unfounded accusations and hysteria, except now it’s hashtags and news cycles instead of mobs.”
Lucas, who speaks out fiercely for racial fairness, was clear about the potential harm caused by these reckless statements—both to Mayor Adams and the city’s already tense political climate.
Lander has not yet retracted or clarified his statement, intensifying calls for his peers to disavow the accusation or face criticism for supporting racialized attacks.
Defining Moment for City Leadership
Many believe this controversy could serve as a turning point on how progressive circles address issues of race and smear tactics. “This conversation isn’t just about Adams,” noted resident Aaron Brown. “If you believe in justice, you can’t then use rumor and innuendo to target Black officials. That has to stop. It’s been going on way too long.”
Whether Lander backtracks or not remains to be seen, but Assemblywoman Lucas has already drawn a deciding line—urging others to show their stance.
To quote Lucas’ closing, “Silence in moments like this speaks volumes in agreement.”
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