On October 3rd, New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks shocked many by announcing his resignation would come sooner than expected. Just a week earlier, he had submitted a letter stating his intention to retire by the end of the year, but now he’s set to step down on October 16th. A spokesperson from the mayor’s office explained that this decision is aimed at allowing the incoming Chancellor, Melissa Aviles-Ramos, to start her work without delay.
Reports indicate that Governor Kathy Hochul had a private conversation with Mayor Eric Adams following his indictment, advising him to dismiss members of his inner circle implicated in the federal investigation to “clean house.” Although Adams had previously resisted firing these staff members, the pressure appears to be mounting as he seeks to maintain Hochul’s trust and safeguard his position, considering her ability to remove him from office. The New York Post revealed that Adams informed Banks of his decision to resign early on the evening of October 2nd, catching Banks off guard as there had been no prior discussion about this move.
During a press briefing, Adams remarked that city principals and educators are hoping for a leadership overhaul in the Department of Education to restore stability. He stated, “Having both Ramos and Banks in the same space doesn’t bring us the stability we’re looking for.” In response, Banks released a personal statement, expressing his commitment to stay until December 31st to ensure a smooth transition. He noted that the mayor’s decision had accelerated his departure.
Incoming Chancellor Ramos, who previously worked as Banks’ chief of staff, expressed her strong support for the policies he has implemented and plans to collaborate with him on key decisions during his remaining time in office.
Adding to the drama, on September 4th, the FBI raided Banks’ home, seizing communication devices while investigating allegations of improper contract dealings with a consulting firm run by his brother, Terrence Banks. Furthermore, Banks’ fiancée, Sheena Wright, who serves as the city’s First Deputy Mayor, also had her phone taken by federal agents.
Despite the ongoing federal investigation and Adams’ indictment, Banks and Wright celebrated their wedding on September 28th in Martha’s Vineyard. Legal experts suggest that the couple may rely on “spousal privilege” to shield themselves, noting that federal law permits married couples to refuse to testify against each other in criminal cases.
