About two weeks ago, our publication’s “New Yorker Talks” boldly predicted that embattled Mayor Adams was likely entering what we called the “garbage time” of his tenure, just hoping to make it to the finish line without further incident. At the time, this prediction seemed a bit daring, but who could have imagined it would come true so swiftly?

With the recent indictment of Adams himself, the drama has only just reached its first crescendo. Prosecutors have hinted that this is far from the end and that additional charges—or even more defendants—could be forthcoming. Even if no new evidence surfaces, Adams’ decision to deliberately change his phone password to obstruct the investigation could itself warrant charges such as obstructing justice and lying to investigators. On the political front, his core team is rapidly disbanding, creating a chaotic atmosphere. The city council, which has been quietly vying for power against Adams, certainly won’t be showing him any sympathy as he grapples with these challenges.

Looking further ahead, how many influential business and political elites would dare to partner with a scandal-ridden mayor who has become a global media headline? And with such a loss of authority and credibility, how many capable technocrats, who rely on their own merit rather than proximity to power, would still be willing to take direction from him?

The term “garbage time” comes from sports; it describes a game where the outcome is so lopsided that the losing team can no longer change its fate but must simply run out the clock. In this light, Adams’ refusal to resign seems to echo that same scenario—regardless of any grand plans he might have, the reality is that he is utterly outmatched.

Rising from a working-class background, Adams reached the pinnacle of his career through hard work and self-confidence. However, it is this very confidence that now seems to be working against him. His once-assured public statements are increasingly starting to feel more like the antics of a clown. While he brands himself as “the Biden of Brooklyn,” his behavior—marked by near-obsessive arrogance and narcissism—bears a striking resemblance to a “mini Trump.”