Mamdani Plans Retain Tisch as NYPD Commissioner if Elected

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic front-runner for New York City mayor, has announced he will ask current NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain in her position if he is elected. This decision aims to address concerns about how the former critic of the police department would manage the 34,000-officer force and maintain morale. Tisch, appointed by outgoing Mayor Eric Adams, is credited with reducing crime and rooting out corruption, though her views on criminal justice reforms differ from Mamdani's. Mamdani's pledge has drawn support from moderate Democrats and business leaders, including Governor Kathy Hochul, but may face skepticism from some progressive allies. While Tisch has not confirmed whether she would accept the offer, sources expect she will. Mamdani also plans to maintain NYPD staffing levels and create a new agency to handle mental health crisis calls, signaling a nuanced approach to policing.