The announcement comes as Hochul faces a competitive primary battle and seeks to shore up support in the city’s outer boroughs. Adams, who represents Southeast Queens and became the first Black woman to serve as council speaker, brings deep ties to the city’s political establishment.
“Adrienne Adams has proven herself as a leader who gets results for working families,” Hochul said in a statement. “Her experience fighting for affordable housing and good-paying jobs makes her the right choice to help move New York forward.”
Adams would replace current Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, who took the job last year after Brian Benjamin resigned amid federal corruption charges. The lieutenant governor post has limited official duties but serves as a key political role for statewide campaigns.
The Queens Democrat has served in the council since 2018, representing neighborhoods including Jamaica, Rochdale Village and South Ozone Park. She won the speaker’s race in 2021 after a bruising battle that split the council along geographic and ideological lines.
“I’m honored to join Governor Hochul’s ticket and continue fighting for the issues that matter most to New Yorkers,” Adams said.
The pick signals Hochul’s recognition that she needs strong turnout from city voters to win the Democratic primary. Adams’ selection could help energize Black voters, who make up a crucial part of the party’s base in New York.
Political observers said the choice makes strategic sense for Hochul, who has sometimes struggled to connect with city voters despite her upstate roots.
“Adrienne Adams knows how to build coalitions and deliver for her constituents,” said one Democratic operative who requested anonymity. “That’s exactly what Hochul needs right now.”
The governor faces primary challenges from several candidates, including Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Rep. Tom Suozzi. Recent polling shows Hochul leading but with significant numbers of undecided voters.
Adams will need to balance her new statewide role with her duties as council speaker, where she’s been pushing an agenda focused on housing affordability and economic development.
