Why Sexual Misconduct Is Unforgivable but Corruption Is Overlooked Two candidates in the New York race for mayor have been accused of wrongdoing. One has been urged to drop out of the race; the other is gaining strength. Before harassment allegations, city comptroller Scott Stringer, center, was a leading candidate in the mayoral race. Credit...Sarah Blesener for The New York Times May 13, 2021, 5:00 a.m. ET A year ago, if you had asked anyone who has spent time around New York City politics who would next become mayor, you were likely to hear that the election of Scott Stringer was more or less assured. Ranked-choice voting would probably favor him. A lifelong public servant, a son of Washington Heights, a wonk, an advocate — fighting for housing justice and climate justice and all the justices — he seemed like a pot roast on a damp night in midwinter: satisfying, if not abundant in memorable flavor.