Published on: January 1, 2026, 09:49h.

Updated on: January 1, 2026, 09:49h.

• Andy Cohen expresses his relief that Eric Adams is no longer the mayor of NYC
• Adams played a crucial role in securing the Bally’s Bronx casino proposal
• Bally’s Bronx was granted a gaming license for downstate New York

Prominent television personality Andy Cohen did not hold back his joy regarding Eric Adams no longer serving as mayor of New York City during CNN’s New Year’s Eve festivities.

With Zohran Mamdani taking the oath right after midnight, placing his hand on the Quran as he made history as the first Muslim mayor of the nation’s largest city, Adams bid farewell. Cohen, a little inebriated after several cocktails and “shotskis” typical of his co-host, Anderson Cooper, unleashed a tirade against Adams’ administration.

“As we watch the turbulent exit of Mayor Adams… take your pardons and ride off into the sunset. We’ll deal with what’s left behind,” an inebriated Cohen remarked. “Enjoy your parties; we’ll catch you at all the events.”

“Hold on, sweetie,” Cooper attempted to interject.

“Farewell, Mayor Adams! You made it; you got your pardon,” Cohen shot back.

Adams Secured Bally’s Casino Proposal

Eric Adams’ time as mayor was marked by numerous controversies. Once admired for his strong law enforcement stance, his term was soon clouded by investigations that surfaced in 2024.

Adams faced federal indictments for allegations of bribery, fraud, and securing illegal foreign campaign contributions. He denied all accusations, suggesting the Biden Administration’s Department of Justice was retaliating against him over his stance on the migrant crisis.

Under Trump’s DOJ, federal prosecutors ultimately decided to drop the charges. Although no pardon was granted, as Cohen suggested, many criticized the dismissal, arguing that it hinted at a potential deal where Adams would cooperate with immigration enforcement in exchange for dropping the charges.

Further controversy arose when Adams personally ensured Bally’s Corporation could move forward with its casino project in the Bronx. After the NYC Council voted 29-9 against the casino proposal, Adams vetoed their decision to facilitate the $2.3 billion development.

Bally’s eventually received one of the three downstate New York casino licenses. As a result, Bally’s must pay The Trump Organization $115 million, a requirement established when they took over the management lease of the city-owned golf course in the Bronx in 2023. This fee is contingent on Bally’s acquiring the rights to operate slot machines at this location.

Many perceived Adams’ backing of the Bally’s Bronx project as an attempt to curry favor with Trump for a potential role in his administration after leaving office.

Mamdani’s Leadership

Mamdani is not an advocate for casinos or gambling, but due to the downstate casino licenses awarded by the New York State Gaming Commission, he lacks the authority to revoke the permissions for slots, live gaming tables, or sports betting.

Mamdani is committed to upholding the downstate casino law passed by voters in 2013.