New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointment of Maria Torres-Springer as the new first deputy mayor, succeeding Sheena Wright.

Torres-Springer, previously the Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce, will continue to oversee her current portfolio and provide strategic direction for the city.

“Maria has delivered for our city over and over again, and I know she will continue to do so in this new role,” said Mayor Adams. He also praised First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright for her significant contributions, stating, “First Deputy Mayor Wright has served New Yorkers well in helping to expand access to childcare, deliver free internet access to public housing residents, and battle gun violence.”

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Incoming First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer expressed her gratitude, saying, “Serving this city has been my life’s work. I am deeply grateful to Mayor Eric Adams for entrusting me with this role.”

Reverend Al Sharpton commented on Wright’s departure, noting, “She was part of a contingent that showed the power a Black woman can have when placed in a seat of power, and I wish her well as she embarks on her next chapter.”

Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of Partnership for New York City, praised the appointment, stating, “The mayor has made a wise choice in appointing a seasoned professional and skilled manager as first deputy mayor.”

Henry Garrido, Executive Director of District Council 37, added, “I am also so happy to congratulate Maria Torres-Springer in her new role as first deputy mayor. She is extremely talented, and her commitment to the city will serve New Yorkers well.”

Dan Doctoroff, former NYC Deputy Mayor, emphasized, “There is no one more qualified to be first deputy mayor than Maria Torres-Springer.”

This appointment is seen as a strategic move to continue advancing the city’s housing, economic development, and workforce initiatives.