Who is Jumaane Williams? ‘Activist’ and NYC’s new mayor if Eric Adams steps down

Jumaane Williams, NYC's public advocate, could become acting mayor if Eric Adams steps aside

Jumaane Williams, New York City’s current public advocate, is next in line to assume acting mayoral duties if Mayor Eric Adams steps down or is suspended from office, as outlined in the city charter. Williams, a former city councilman, has held the position of public advocate since winning a special election in 2019. He previously ran for New York governor in 2022 but lost to Kathy Hochul.

Williams is a first-generation Brooklynite of Grenadian heritage and a community organizer from Brooklyn. He has championed police reform and affordable housing throughout his career. While serving as a member of the NYC Council representing the 45th District, Williams sponsored the Community Safety Act, which reformed the NYPD’s Stop, Question & Frisk policy and established the NYPD’s Office of Inspector General. As the former Co-Chair of the Council’s Task Force to Combat Gun Violence, he helped create New York’s Crisis Management System, which funds Cure Violence Groups to reduce shootings.

Williams has stated that his priorities include "better policing and safer streets, affordable housing, and transparency and accountability in city government." He has also been an active participant in movements like Occupy Wall Street, highlighting his long-standing involvement in social justice causes.

Mayor Eric Adams is reportedly expected to face federal charges, though he has denied any wrongdoing. If Adams steps down, Williams will temporarily take over mayoral duties.