Adams changes stance on NYC horse carriage ban after discussions with donor supporting electric vehicle alternatives.

In a notable shift regarding the controversial horse-drawn carriage industry in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams, who had previously expressed opposition to a ban, has now voiced his support for phasing out this historic form of transportation. This change comes amidst rising scrutiny following a recent meeting between Adams and influential figures advocating for the ban.

Previously, during his 2021 campaign for mayor, Adams conveyed a commitment to upholding the horse carriage industry. However, a few weeks ago, he announced his newfound support for an initiative aimed at replacing horse carriages with electric alternatives, highlighting a reversal that has raised eyebrows among both city residents and political observers.

This pivot followed a meeting between Adams, his top deputy, and Josh Fox, a Florida businessman whose financial backing helped propel Adams’ campaign. Fox is affiliated with the Brady Hunter Foundation, which is dedicated to animal welfare and aims to develop electric carriages deemed more humane than their horse-drawn counterparts. Reports indicate that Fox has been lobbying for the ban since at least 2023, seeking avenues to present his proposal to city officials.

Fox’s campaign has garnered further attention due to his connections with key figures in Adams’ inner circle. Eric Lerner, a cryptocurrency attorney and Fox’s associate, has also actively supported Adams, including significant financial contributions during his re-election campaign. Lerner was previously involved with EmpowerNYC, a political action committee that raised over .5 million to support Adams.

Fox’s approach to banning the carriage industry has progressed steadily. Earlier this year, he enlisted Frank Carone, a former chief of staff to Adams, to help navigate the political landscape in pursuit of this aim. Although initial efforts faltered, Fox’s renewed engagement with city officials this summer led to discussions around transforming the carriage industry entirely.

Following discussions with First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, Adams publicly revealed his support for exploring alternatives to horse carriages on September 17, emphasizing a need to look at options that would preserve the charm of Central Park while ensuring animal welfare. Despite the public rationale emphasizing a recent incident involving a runaway carriage horse as a catalyst for his change, the involvement of Fox and his associates looms over the mayor’s decision.

As the potential ban faces scrutiny, opposition from organizations such as the Transport Workers Union has intensified. The union argues that the ban would jeopardize the livelihoods of the carriage drivers. Union President John Samuelsen criticized the alliance formed between Adams and Fox as unfavorable, asserting that it compromises the interests of working-class citizens in favor of wealthy donors.

Adams has defended his administration’s engagement with Fox, framing it as part of a broader effort to consult stakeholders addressing animal welfare concerns. However, with an approaching deadline — as Adams prepares to leave office on January 1 — the feasibility of passing a ban through the City Council remains uncertain. The council has shown resistance to swift legislative action, which complicates the mayor’s stated objectives.

The unfolding dynamics reveal a complex interplay between animal rights advocacy, political donations, and looming legislative actions, positioning New York City at a critical juncture in determining the future of its iconic horse-drawn carriage heritage. The debate continues, reflecting broader concerns about commercialization, animal welfare, and the socioeconomic implications for those who rely on the industry for their livelihoods.