By Raquel Nova
New York City Councilman for District 7, Shaun Abreu, has faced growing criticism from the Dominican community that backed him during his political rise. Many Dominicans who voted for him are expressing dissatisfaction with what they perceive as a disconnection with the community that supported him, a sentiment that has been aggravated by his recent call for the early resignation of Mayor Eric Adams.
The Distancing of Shaun Abreu and His Call for Adams’ Resignation
For years, Mayor Eric Adams was a key ally to emerging political leaders like Shaun Abreu, offering support at crucial moments in their careers. Abreu was among those who received Adams’ backing during his campaign for the City Council, which was vital to his victory. However, the situation has taken an unexpected turn: with the recent accusations of bribery and illegal contributions that Mayor Adams faces, Abreu has joined the chorus of voices calling for his resignation, arguing that the city needs leadership free from scandals.
This stance from Abreu has caused discomfort among many Dominicans who see him as someone who has forgotten the support he received from Adams at a time when the mayor is facing his greatest crisis. For some, Abreu’s call for Adams’ resignation is seen as an act of disloyalty towards someone who was instrumental in his political success.
“Denying Three Times”: A Biblical Parallel in Politics
Abreu’s actions, along with those of other Dominican leaders who have begun to distance themselves from Adams, remind many of the biblical story of Peter, who denied knowing Jesus Christ three times before the rooster crowed. Similarly, some see in these politicians a “denial” of their relationship with Adams, just when the mayor most needs the support of those he helped elevate to power. This parallel has sparked an intense debate within the Dominican community, which is observing how political alliances fade when times get tough.
Discontent in the Dominican Community
For many Dominicans, Shaun Abreu’s attitude has been disappointing. Luis A., a resident of Washington Heights, commented: “Shaun Abreu rose to the City Council thanks to the support of our community and, in large part, thanks to Adams’ backing. Now that the mayor is facing problems, he’s turning his back on him. It’s a betrayal of those who helped him.”
Ana G., a Dominican activist, added: “The support Adams gave to Shaun was key in his political career. His call for resignation seems more like a political strategy than a genuine concern for the city. It’s easy to join the criticism when things go wrong, but it’s in difficult times when we see who truly supports the community.”
Carlos F., a local business owner, expressed: “What bothers me most is that Shaun seems to have disconnected from the community that elected him. We don’t see him as often as before, and his decisions seem far removed from the needs of the people who voted for him. Calling for Adams’ resignation doesn’t help solve the problems of our community.”
Is This a Political Strategy or a Sign of Independence?
Shaun Abreu’s call for Adams’ resignation has sparked a debate on whether his stance is a sign of political independence or simply a strategy to distance himself from an ally facing challenges. Whatever the motivation, the Dominican community that supported him feels their voice is no longer being heard.
As the political landscape in New York continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Shaun Abreu will be able to regain the trust of those who brought him to power, and whether his distancing from Adams will be seen as a betrayal or a necessary political maneuver.
