Good Morning, New York! Hochul says she will not remove Adams at this time, Adams was stripped of security clearance at start of suit, an inmate uprising took place at a prison amidst wildcat strikes, and Adams will finally debate his opponents. This is your Tammany Times AM Briefing for Friday, February 21st, 2025.

WHERE’S KATHY: In Washington DC for the National Governors Association White House Meeting.

WHERE’s ERIC: No public schedule yet.

TIPS? Email me: [email protected]

Front Pages

Hall Monitors

— Despite growing calls for his removal, Gov. Hochul announced she would not remove Mayor Adams from office "at this time." Instead, she's proposing new legislation to restrict his power and dramatically increase oversight of city government, hoping to restore public trust and prevent future issues. Adams responded that he's willing to work with the governor while defending his administration's decisions. (State of Politics)

— Flushing's Metropolitan Park casino is one step closer to reality after the City Planning Commission gave the $8 billion project the green light. The proposal, spearheaded by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock Entertainment, aims to transform a parking lot near Citi Field into an entertainment complex, but is contingent on winning one of the state's three downstate casino licenses. While most commissioners voted in favor, one opposed due to environmental concerns, and the project still needs City Council approval. (QNS)

— PBS pulled LGBTQ history videos co-created with the city's Education Department, citing concerns over Donald Trump's executive orders. In response, the city has republished the videos on its own website, though some worry they'll be less accessible than before. It is also possible that there will be legal challenges to NYC's publishing of the content. (Chalkbeat)

— Mayor Adams' legal woes are now reportedly impacting his ability to protect New York City, despite his numerous claims to the contrary. Due to his corruption indictment, Adams was stripped of his security clearance and is no longer privy to federal intelligence, including terror threats, said his lawyer. The revelation came during a hearing about the DOJ's controversial motion to dismiss Adams' indictment, which some fear could make him beholden to Trump.(NY Daily News)

Capitol Gains

— Tensions are high in New York's prisons as an inmate uprising occurred at Riverview Correctional Facility amidst a fourth day of striking corrections officers. Riverview officers retreated from their posts, leading to CERT teams and police intervention to regain control. Gov. Hochul has activated the National Guard to assist, while the state seeks a court order to end what she calls an "illegal work stoppage." (Times Union)

— Six prison workers just got slammed with murder charges over the death of inmate Robert Brooks following a brutal beating at Marcy Correctional Facility. Body camera footage of the December incident sparked outrage. The accused face potential life sentences, though they've all pleaded not guilty. They face life in prison if convicted. (State of Politics)

— New York's Climate Change Superfund Act is under attack. Over 20 states are suing, calling the law an unconstitutional attack on energy industries. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton described it as a radical shakedown that unfairly punishes energy producers and consumers. This is only one of many legal battles that the Superfund is expected to face. (Times Union)

Trail Mix

— Curtis Sliwa just swept all five Republican Party chairs in NYC, slamming the door on Mayor Adams possibly running on the GOP line. Republican leaders made it clear: their endorsement of Sliwa means they won't give a crucial Wilson-Pakula authorization to Adams. Even a call from Trump isn't likely to change their minds, according to Queens GOP Chair Anthony Nunziato. (City & State)

— Mayor Adams is finally stepping into the arena with his 2025 mayoral challengers. Next week, he'll face off against other candidates at a DC 37 forum, the first time he's debated them this election cycle. This comes as Adams faces criticism over a deal with Trump's DOJ regarding his corruption indictment, raising questions about his independence and potential role in deportations. (NY Daily News)

— Looks like Sean Ryan's about to snag the Erie County Democratic Committee's endorsement for Buffalo mayor, giving him a leg up in the race. But don't count out Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon and other contenders just yet—they can still run in the primary on June 24th. Zellner says voters want someone who can change the culture in City Hall, and think that Ryan is the one to do so. (WIVB)