New York City Mayor Eric Adams attributed Vice President Kamala Harris’ loss in the presidential race to the Democratic Party’s focus on fear-mongering about Donald Trump rather than addressing the pressing concerns of everyday Americans.
Speaking with Fox News host Martha MacCallum on Wednesday, Adams weighed in on the Democratic Party’s missteps and the ongoing immigration crisis that has placed immense pressure on New York City.
MacCallum asked Adams about President-elect Donald Trump’s decisive victory over Harris, highlighting his significant gains in New York City’s five boroughs, traditionally Democratic strongholds.
Trump’s campaign resonated with voters, securing over 22 percentage points more support in the Bronx and Queens compared to 2020, while also improving in Manhattan and Long Island.
Adams offered a candid critique of his party’s strategy. “We stopped speaking to people; we started speaking at people,” Adams said. “Instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue, we ignored the real fears people are facing—affordability, housing insecurity, and their children’s futures. Instead, the conversation became about whether Donald Trump is the next Hitler. People are saying, ‘What the hell are you talking about? I’m hurting, and you’re focused on that?’”
Adams’ remarks highlight a growing sentiment that the Democratic Party has become disconnected from the needs of its voter base.
By focusing on abstract fears rather than tangible solutions, the party failed to address concerns that matter most to Americans, such as economic challenges and public safety.
The mayor’s comments echo voter sentiment in New York City, where Trump’s improved performance indicates growing dissatisfaction with the Democratic establishment.
Adams also criticized the Biden administration’s border policies and New York City’s sanctuary city designation, which he argued has been misused to enable criminal activity rather than support law-abiding migrants.
“Sanctuary city policy is about protecting people who are contributing to the city, paying taxes, and following the law,” Adams explained. “It’s not meant to be a safe haven for those committing crimes or harming migrants, asylum seekers, and other New Yorkers.”
He emphasized the distinction between providing services to individuals legally participating in the community and allowing a system that fosters criminal activity under the guise of sanctuary protections.
After Donald Trump’s reelection in November, Adams took immediate steps to address the city’s challenges with illegal immigration.
He announced cuts to taxpayer-funded services for undocumented immigrants and expressed support for Trump’s incoming Border Czar, Tom Homan, in efforts to deport individuals engaged in criminal activities.
“This is not about abandoning our values as a sanctuary city,” Adams clarified. “It’s about ensuring those values aren’t exploited at the expense of public safety and the resources of our residents.”
Adams’ critiques come as a warning to the Democratic Party: reconnect with voters by addressing their everyday concerns or risk further alienation.
With Trump’s improved performance in New York City—a historical Democratic stronghold—the election results underscore a shift in voter priorities.
As Democrats grapple with the lessons from this election, Adams’ remarks serve as a reminder that effective leadership requires listening to the people, not talking over them.