Mamdani Stands by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch Despite Growing Pressure From Socialist Allies

Yisroel R.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani has made clear that NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch will remain in her position, despite growing demands from his own political allies to remove her following a controversial shooting involving federal immigration agents.

The relationship has come under renewed pressure following an October 8 shooting by federal immigration agents in Marble Hill, which sparked protests and criticism of the NYPD’s response. Members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the political movement that helped elect Mamdani, have demanded Tisch’s removal, accusing the department of assisting federal immigration authorities and mistreating protesters.

However, Mamdani made clear Tuesday that he has no intention of replacing her. “Jessica Tisch is the police commissioner. I have no plans to change that,” the mayor told reporters, praising her record of fighting corruption within the NYPD and overseeing declining crime rates. The two later appeared together at a ceremony honoring fallen police officers.

The mayor’s continued support for Tisch is particularly interesting given their political differences and the unusual relationship the two have maintained since Mamdani took office.

Tisch, who was appointed by former Mayor Eric Adams in November 2024, was retained by Mamdani when he took office in January. The decision created an unusual political partnership between a mayor known for his outspoken criticism of Israel and a Jewish police commissioner who has publicly expressed her personal connection to the matter.

Tisch has also spoken openly about her Jewish identity. During an August appearance at a Manhattan synagogue following an antisemitic attack, she described herself as a “proud Jew” and promised that the NYPD would continue protecting Jewish New Yorkers. She has also spoken about her family’s experiences with growing antisemitism.

The mayor’s continued support for Tisch highlights a striking political relationship in City Hall, where two officials with sharply different positions on Israel and policing have continued working together despite growing pressure from Mamdani’s political base.

photo: Kara McCurdy/Mayoral Photography Office