Eric Adams's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 24, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Eric Adams. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Eric Leroy Adams is the current mayor of New York City, serving since 2022. Prior to his political career, Adams was a police officer in the NYPD for over 20 years, retiring as a captain. He transitioned to politics, serving in the New York State Senate from 2006 to 2013, representing Brooklyn's 20th district. Adams then became the first African American to be elected Brooklyn Borough President in 2013, holding the position until becoming mayor. His career spans law enforcement and public service.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

November 5, 2013: Elected Brooklyn Borough President

On November 5, 2013, Eric Adams was elected Brooklyn Borough President with a significant majority of the vote.

2016: Switched to plant-based diet

In 2016, Eric Adams switched to a plant-based diet after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. He researched alternatives to insulin, consulted with physicians, and made lifestyle changes. He removed animal products, processed sugar, salt, oil, and processed starches from his diet and began exercising regularly. He lost 30 lb (14 kg), reversed his diabetes, and reduced his blood pressure and cholesterol levels within six months.

November 2, 2021: Elected as Mayor of New York City

On November 2, 2021, Eric Adams was elected as Mayor of New York City in a landslide victory against Republican Curtis Sliwa.

2021: Won Democratic Nomination and Mayoral Election

In 2021, Eric Adams secured the Democratic Party's nomination for mayor of New York City and subsequently won the general election against Curtis Sliwa. As mayor, he implemented a tough-on-crime approach and reinstated a plain-clothed NYPD unit.

November 12, 2024: Trash Containerization Mandate Effective for Small Buildings

On November 12, 2024, the mandated trash containerization policy for buildings with 10 or fewer units went into effect in New York City. This policy, which began with mandates for restaurants a year prior, aims to containerize 89% of city streets and is considered a major achievement of Mayor Eric Adams's first term.

February 2025: DOJ Instructed to Drop Charges Against Adams

In February 2025, the Department of Justice under the Donald Trump administration instructed federal prosecutors to drop the charges against Eric Adams.