In a sharp rebuke that sent shockwaves through New York’s political arena, Assemblywoman Nikki Lucas (D-60th District) denounced New York City Comptroller Brad Lander for what she described as a reckless and harmful attack on Mayor Eric Adams. Lander, while appearing on Inside City Hall with political anchor Errol Louis, casually remarked that there were rumors about Adams’ name surfacing in the Jeffrey Epstein files, without producing any evidence.
Lander stated, “I’ve heard some people say that the Mayor is in the Epstein files.” This offhand and unverified comment prompted host Errol Louis to immediately distance himself, but the statement had already sparked widespread controversy.
Though Mayor Eric Adams has weathered several controversies, it’s crucial to emphasize that he has not been found guilty of any charges. Presumption of innocence is foundational in a democracy; unproven allegations should never be treated as fact. When officials link Adams to criminal activity without proof, it invites a much darker political agenda—where race, ambition, and sensationalism intersect to erode fairness and justice in New York City politics.
NYC Comptroller Brad Lander – Instagram
The implication, from which Louis distanced his program, has faced swift backlash from community leaders and the public. None was more direct than Assemblywoman Lucas, who released a public statement on Tuesday, labeling Lander’s remark as a new low in the city’s politics.
“Comptroller Brad Lander’s decision to bring up the Epstein files and associate them with Mayor Adams, without evidence, drags this election season down. Unfounded and reckless accusations from citywide officials are more than irresponsible—they are truly dangerous,” Lucas shared with NYC Newswire.
A commentator on Lucas’ Instagram wrote, “Appreciate you saying this. Brad’s remarks are inexcusable—even as a so-called joke. Critique the mayor’s record if you wish, but don’t stoop so low.”
Lucas further stated, “Mayor Adams is a Black man, and that fact is inseparable from the repeated attacks on him. I can’t remain silent as attempts are made to tear him down without cause. Brad Lander must be held accountable, and I call upon leaders such as Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, mayoral hopefuls Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo, and other allies to reject this rhetoric. Remaining silent now is a form of complicity.”
Her defense of Adams quickly gained traction online, as many echoed her worries about how Black leaders are treated in the city’s politics and media.
A Modern “Lynching” Tactic?
Observers drew parallels to racially charged tactics of previous generations. “What’s happening to Mayor Adams amounts to a modern digital lynching,” said a community advocate from East New York. “It’s the same old strategy—accuse a Black leader without proof, whip up a frenzy, only now it’s digital headlines and viral clips.”
Lucas, well-known for her advocacy on racial justice, warned of the serious damage such baseless allegations can inflict—not only on Adams, but on the political atmosphere in a city still grappling with racial justice challenges.
Lander has yet to clarify or retract his comment, as demands grow for his colleagues to repudiate the claims and distance themselves from racially charged attacks.
A Pivotal Moment in City Politics
Many see this as a pivotal test, sparking debate about how progressive politics handle racial bias. “This transcends Adams,” said Aaron Brown of East New York. “If you claim to support equity, you can’t weaponize rumors and race against Black officials.”
Whether Lander issues a retraction remains uncertain. What’s clear is that Nikki Lucas has taken a stand, challenging others to do the same.
As she concluded, “Silence in moments like this is just as bad as agreement.”
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