Hochul weighs "serious step" of removing NYC mayor after deputies resign

The big picture: Torres-Springer and Deputy Mayors Meera Joshi, Chauncey Parker and Anne Williams-Isom resigned after a top Justice Department official requested federal prosecutors drop federal bribery and fraud charges against the indicted mayor and Adams' cooperation with the Trump administration on border security.

• The mayor, who has denied any wrongdoing in the case and pleaded not guilty to all charges, has resisted pressure to resign.

Zoom in: Hochul noted that "in the 235 years of New York State history," the governor's power to remove an elected mayor had never been used and that "overturning the will of the voters is a serious step that should not be taken lightly."

• However, she said "the alleged conduct at City Hall that has been reported over the past two weeks is troubling and cannot be ignored."

What they're saying: Adams' press secretary Kayla Mamelak Altus said Monday night the mayor has been "clear that his loyalty is solely to the 8.3 million New Yorkers" and he's "always available to speak with the governor about how we can continue to deliver for them."

• She pointed to his record in housing, jobs, providing for New Yorkers and immigrants, among other projects that came despite "this investigation and case."

• Mamelak Altus added that "all deputy mayors remain in their roles for the time being to ensure a seamless transition and we are actively working to find their replacements."
• Adams earlier said in a media statement he's "disappointed" to see the deputies go, "but given the current challenges, I understand their decision and wish them nothing but success in the future."

Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.