UPDATE: In a significant announcement during last night’s mayoral debate, Zohran Mamdani confirmed he will retain NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch if elected, aligning with earlier reports from the New York Times. This decision has sparked immediate controversy, especially among progressive supporters who anticipated a more radical shift from the current administration under Eric Adams.
Mamdani’s endorsement of Tisch, who has led the NYPD since late 2024, marks a pivotal moment in the race, as her tenure has been characterized by challenges and leadership changes within the department. During the debate, Mamdani praised Tisch for her efforts in “rooting out corruption and reducing crime across the five boroughs,” despite conflicting views on criminal justice reforms.
The announcement has raised concerns among advocates for police reform. Alex Vitale, a professor at Brooklyn College and an advisor to Mamdani’s campaign, warned that keeping Tisch could undermine Mamdani’s proposed initiatives aimed at establishing a new department focused on mental health and community safety outside the NYPD. “With her running the NYPD, the NYPD is going to stymie his initiatives,” Vitale stated following the debate.
Business leaders reportedly influenced Mamdani’s decision to maintain Tisch, who comes from a wealthy family known for opposing his campaign. Tisch did not comment on the debate or Mamdani’s remarks, but her past criticisms of crime policy have often been at odds with Mamdani’s perspectives.
Tisch has attributed the rise in crime to the state’s 2020 bail reform laws, which eliminated cash bail for most non-violent offenses, and has pointed to a growing mental health crisis as a contributing factor. Conversely, Mamdani cites studies indicating crime rates surged after the pandemic, even in states that maintained existing bail laws.
The debate illuminated their differences, particularly regarding the Raise the Age law, which reduces criminal penalties for minors. While Mamdani defends the policy, Tisch has voiced her criticisms, creating a contentious dialogue between the two.
Despite these differences, Mamdani’s consistent praise for Tisch’s focus on accountability and public safety suggests a complicated relationship. As the mayoral race heats up, voters are left to weigh the implications of Mamdani’s decision and its potential impact on the future of the NYPD and public safety initiatives in New York City.
As this story develops, all eyes will be on Mamdani and Tisch’s next moves in the ongoing debate over policing and public safety reform. Stay tuned for further updates.
