Ms. Adams, the New York City Council speaker, is trying to position herself as a principled alternative to former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Eric Adams.

She got an early, positive reception from the city’s public advocate, Jumaane Williams, who is first in line to replace the mayor if he were to resign. Williams, a self-described activist elected official, has already backed City Comptroller Brad Lander’s candidacy but offered warm words for Speaker Adams.

New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams launches run to replace incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, challenging the front-runner, former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.