Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn has officially endorsed Andrew Cuomo for New York City mayor, delivering a major blow to Mayor Eric Adams. Her endorsement signals a significant shift in political alliances, as Bichotte Hermelyn was one of Adams’ strongest backers during his 2021 campaign and throughout his first term. She is not only endorsing Cuomo but has also taken on a senior advisory role in his campaign.
The announcement was made on March 16, 2025, and comes amid mounting challenges for Adams, who is seeking reelection while facing legal and political setbacks. Bichotte Hermelyn praised Cuomo’s leadership, stating, “Cuomo not only has the right leadership skills but has an extensive plan with a strong network of support to tackle the unique issues and crises our city is facing today.” She highlighted his past accomplishments, particularly his role in guiding the city through the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing affordability, public safety, and social justice issues.
Bichotte Hermelyn’s endorsement aligns her with a growing number of Black elected officials who previously supported Adams but have now switched their backing to Cuomo. Former Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Assemblyman Eddie Gibbs of East Harlem, and Representative Adriano Espaillat have all distanced themselves from Adams. Additionally, two Black City Council members and two Black Assembly members from Brooklyn and Queens have recently thrown their support behind Cuomo. These endorsements reflect Adams’ declining approval ratings, with a Quinnipiac University poll showing that only 20% of voters approve of his performance, the lowest rating for any mayor since the poll’s inception.
Beyond individual endorsements, key labor unions have also begun backing Cuomo’s bid. While Adams has struggled to maintain union support amid legal scrutiny, Cuomo has secured endorsements from several municipal worker unions and key labor groups, signaling growing confidence in his leadership. Bichotte Hermelyn emphasized the shift, stating, “Brooklyn—North, South, and Central—is throwing its support behind Cuomo, reflecting his high approval and polling rates.”
Adams’ campaign has been slow to mobilize, lacking a strong ground operation or significant fundraising momentum. The New York City Campaign Finance Board recently ruled that he is ineligible for $4.3 million in public matching funds due to campaign violations. Additionally, major political consultants who played pivotal roles in Adams’ 2021 victory have yet to join his reelection effort, raising further doubts about his viability in the race. Adams dismissed concerns, stating, “Endorsements don’t win races. Knocking on doors does.”
The shifting political landscape suggests Cuomo is gaining momentum, particularly among key Black Democratic constituencies. With Bichotte Hermelyn’s endorsement, his path to securing the Democratic nomination appears increasingly viable. As the race progresses, Adams faces the challenge of rebuilding his coalition while contending with a mounting wave of defections to Cuomo’s campaign.
