Full Breakdown
Eric Adams Responds to Andy Cohen's New Year's Eve Criticism
1/3/2026, 5:45:58 AM
Tensions Erupt During CNN's New Year's Eve Broadcast
Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams has publicly criticized television host Andy Cohen following a contentious rant during CNN's New Year’s Eve Live special. As the clock struck midnight on January 1, 2026, marking the end of Adams' term, Cohen, co-hosting the event with Anderson Cooper, launched into a tirade describing Adams' tenure as "chaotic" and "horrible." Cohen's remarks included sarcastic comments about Adams receiving "pardons," referencing the dismissal of federal corruption charges against him in April 2025. Cohen stated, “Great, you got your pardons, go off into the sunset. We’ll fiddle with what we have, with what you left us with.”
Adams' Sharp Retort
In response to Cohen's comments, Adams took to X (formerly Twitter) on New Year’s Day, labeling Cohen's remarks as “another sloppy drunken rant.” He urged Cohen to seek help for what he described as a drinking problem, stating, “If anyone actually cares about him, they’ll tell him to get help. New Yorkers aren’t laughing with him. They are concerned about him. Public intoxication is a disease.” Adams concluded his post with a pointed reference to Alcoholics Anonymous, writing, “AAA: Andy’s Alcohol Anonymous.”
Background on the Conflict
This incident is not the first time Cohen has criticized an outgoing New York City mayor during a New Year’s Eve broadcast. In 2022, he similarly lambasted former Mayor Bill de Blasio. Cohen's on-air antics have previously led to CNN instituting a temporary ban on alcohol consumption during the broadcast, although this policy has since been relaxed.
Cohen's Comments and Reactions
Cohen's comments were met with mixed reactions, with some viewers finding humor in his drunken remarks. However, both Cooper and actor B.J. Novak, who was also present, appeared uncomfortable as Cohen continued his critique. Novak even suggested that Cohen “can’t help himself,” as he pressed on with his criticisms of Adams.
Official Statements and Responses
Adams' response has drawn attention not only for its content but also for its timing, coinciding with the swearing-in of his successor, Zohran Mamdani, who has promised a "new era" for New York City. Mamdani, the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of the city, emphasized a commitment to expansive governance in his inaugural speech.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Cohen's behavior have pointed out that his rants detract from the celebratory nature of the New Year’s Eve festivities. Some have expressed concern over the normalization of such public drunkenness, especially in a high-profile broadcast.
What's Next
As the new administration under Mamdani begins, it remains to be seen how this public spat will influence the political landscape in New York City. Cohen's future role in CNN's New Year’s Eve coverage may also be reconsidered in light of this incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My response to @Andy: AA. Another sloppy drunken rant.” — Eric Adams
- “If anyone actually cares about him, they’ll tell him to get help. New Yorkers aren’t laughing with him. They are concerned about him. Public intoxication is a disease. He should seek help,” — Eric Adams
- “Great, you got your pardons, go off in the sunset.” — Andy Cohen
- “I just want to say, goodbye Mayor Adams, you did it, you did it, you did it, didn’t you?” — Andy Cohen
This exchange highlights the often contentious relationship between public figures and the media, particularly in the context of live broadcasts where emotions can run high.
