Adams’ Final Move Before Office Ends Could Undermine Incoming Mayor’s Authority

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is preparing to establish a Charter Revision Commission that could fundamentally alter the city’s election regulations and immigration policies before his term concludes.

The commission, which Adams plans to hand-pick, would operate independently and continue into the next administration, potentially reshaping municipal law long after Adams leaves office.

According to sources, one of the commission’s primary focuses will be revising city laws governing how local law enforcement collaborates with federal immigration authorities. Additionally, the body is expected to review changes to the city’s primary election system, including proposals that would allow unaffiliated voters to participate in partisan elections.

The temporary commission, composed entirely of Adams’ appointees, would have broad authority to propose amendments to New York City’s charter. Any approved recommendations would be placed before voters in a future ballot measure.

Critics argue that the move grants Adams undue influence over major policy decisions after his term ends, effectively constraining the authority of incoming Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and the new City Council.

A source described the commission as undemocratic, stating it transfers power to an entity created at the end of a mayor’s term rather than allowing elected officials to govern directly.

No previous New York City mayor has established such a commission that would carry over into the next administration. If formed, the commission could place proposed charter changes on the ballot as early as November 2026.

Mamdani would face significant legal barriers if he attempted to dissolve the commission or block its proposals, further limiting his ability to shape city policy during his initial term.

Adams previously convened a similar commission that examined primary election reforms but ultimately did not advance changes to the ballot.

The commission is expected to be announced shortly as part of Adams’ final actions before leaving office.