New York officials argue over possibility of removing Adams from office: sources

New York state officials are trying to figure out how exactly they can legally remove a sitting mayor — as details emerge from the explosive federal indictment against Eric Adams, The Post has learned.

The attempt to devise a plan to remove a mayor – a power the New York governor rarely uses – comes amid fears that Adams will defy growing calls for his resignation.

If Adams persists, he could put Gov. Kathy Hochul in uncharted territory as the mayor of the nation’s largest city fights criminal charges that accuse him of accepting bribes from foreigners and defrauding taxpayers of $10 million.

A spokesman for Hochul did not deny that state officials are reviewing arcane pieces of legislation that detail how a mayor can be removed from office, but downplayed their significance.

“Of course, the law firm would be willing to present to the governor any possible legal scenario related to this matter,” the spokesman said. “But as the governor has made clear, she is reviewing the details released this morning and it would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this time.”

According to the city charter, the mayor of New York City can be removed from office by the governor “on impeachment,” provided he is given an opportunity to defend himself.

Eric Adams indictment: Live updates after New York mayor files charges

Hochul promised during an appearance Thursday morning that he would address the allegations against Adams later in the day.

Asked how her experiences under former Gov. Andrew Cuomo during his resignation impacted her decision-making, she said it was important to maintain the trust of rightly concerned New Yorkers.

“I know that and whatever I can do as the leader of this great state to reassure them that they are in good hands, we will make sure we get through this,” she said. “It’s shocking.”

Stay up to date with the New York Post’s coverage of the indictment of Mayor Eric Adams

Sources say other state officials are also preparing to do business with a potential new mayor of New York City.

Some state officials have already told employees in recent days to prepare to work with a new administration, another source said.

District Attorney Jumaane Williams, a left-wing Democrat, would take over as mayor if Adams is ousted or resigns.

Adams vowed to continue as mayor during a rally outside Gracie Mansion and said his “day-to-day life” would not change, despite the unprecedented situation of battling criminal charges as New York City’s sitting mayor.

He called the charges the product of an overzealous Justice Department.

“I think you should ask the federal investigators and prosecutors who gave the instructions to take the actions that we are seeing,” he said.

Hizzoner’s rally ended with protesters chanting “Resign!”