New York City’s mayoral race has intensified with the entry of Adrienne Adams, a Democratic candidate leveraging her sorority network for fundraising success. Adams, a member of the House, is tapping into the Divine Nine, a coalition of historically Black sororities and fraternities that played a pivotal role in Kamala Harris’ campaign.
Empowering Women in Politics
Adrienne Adams, a Spelman College alumna, is vying to become the first female mayor of New York City. Her campaign kickstarted with enthusiasm but faces financial challenges in a competitive landscape dominated by well-funded opponents.
Despite raising $128,000 in her first week, Adams trails in funding compared to other candidates like Brad Lander and Eric Adams. To bridge this gap, she is banking on the support of the Divine Nine and influential figures like Hasoni Pratts, a prominent member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
Challenges and Strategies
Adams’ late entry into the race poses hurdles, compounded by the lack of name recognition and financial resources. However, her ties to the Divine Nine offer a ray of hope in mobilizing a community of over 2 million Black men and women nationwide.
To qualify for public matching funds crucial for a competitive campaign, Adams needs to ramp up her fundraising efforts before the June 24 Democratic primary. Her team is exploring innovative strategies, including delayed vendor payments and potential bank loans.
Building Momentum
Adams’ campaign has garnered attention from various quarters, with notable figures like Attorney General Letitia James voicing support. The Divine Nine’s backing remains pivotal, signaling a strong grassroots movement that could propel Adams to the forefront of the mayoral race.
Despite the challenges ahead, Adams’ supporters exude confidence in her candidacy, emphasizing the widespread excitement and momentum surrounding her campaign.
