In what promises to be a heated and contentious appearance, attorney Randy Mastro is set to testify before a skeptical City Council on Tuesday as he seeks to secure the top position at New York City's Law Department. Nominated by Mayor Eric Adams, Mastro's confirmation process has been marred by months of behind-the-scenes lobbying and public opposition from lawmakers, highlighting a growing divide between the two branches of city government.

For Mayor Adams, the stakes couldn't be higher. With considerable political capital invested in Mastro's nomination for corporation counsel, despite clear evidence of significant opposition within the City Council, a rejection by lawmakers, who possess veto power over the appointment, would be a significant blow to the mayor's instincts and negotiation skills.

During Tuesday's hearing before the Committee on Rules, Privileges and Elections, Mastro will not only deliver his first public address to council members but also face a barrage of tough questions from lawmakers. Speaker Adrienne Adams, who has openly expressed her dissatisfaction with Mastro's nomination, is expected to focus on the corporation counsel's duty to represent all branches of government, rather than just City Hall's interests. She emphasizes that being a qualified attorney is not the sole qualification for the office.

In response to the upcoming hearing, Council spokesperson Rendy Desamours stated, "The nominee for this prestigious position must have the confidence of all city officials, demonstrate independence and a commitment to justice, and serve the best interest of the public."

In a demonstration of public sentiment, the Council has allowed for public testimony during the hearing where individuals unhappy with the mayor's choice will voice their concerns. Notably, Charles King, the CEO of homeless advocacy group Housing Works, plans to testify about Mastro's alleged "malicious" campaign against the organization's city health care contracts during the AIDS crisis under the Giuliani administration.

Despite the opposition, Mastro is not without his supporters. Former Gov. David Paterson, Assemblymember David Weprin, and former Giuliani administration Deputy Mayor Fran Reiter are among those planning to publicly praise Mastro during the hearing.

Mayor Adams initially announced his plan to nominate Mastro as corporation counsel over four months ago, after his predecessor Sylvia Hinds-Radix was pushed out due to disagreements with City Hall leadership. However, the nomination was met with resistance from two City Council caucuses. The LGBTQIA+ Caucus raised concerns about Mastro's previous role as a top aide in the Giuliani administration, while the Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus criticized his representation of former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, deeming him unfit for the position.

Mastro's formal nomination was submitted to the Council on July 30, and the body has 30 days to vote on the nomination in a process known as advice and consent. The voting is expected to take place during the second week of September, but it is widely anticipated that the Council will reject Mastro's nomination.

The Council's history of overriding mayoral vetoes and City Hall's efforts to thwart Council initiatives have created a tense dynamic. Despite these challenges, Mayor Adams remains steadfast in his support for Mastro, stating that he is the best person to handle the complex legal issues facing the city.

As the city awaits the outcome of the confirmation process, the hearing marks a crucial moment in the ongoing power struggle between the Mayor's Office and the City Council, highlighting the importance of this appointment and its implications for the city's legal future.