NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Confirms Support for NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch Amid Calls for Her Removal

<p>New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated on October 13, 2026, that he has "no plans" to fire NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, despite pressure from some members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) to do so following protests related to an ICE-involved shooting in the Bronx.</p><p>During a ceremony honoring fallen NYPD officers, Mamdani addressed Tisch's position as head of the department. He said, "Jessica Tisch is the police commissioner. I have no plans to change that." He emphasized that his decision to appoint Tisch was based on her record of addressing corruption within the NYPD while also reducing crime rates in the city. Mamdani noted that the city has seen the lowest recorded number of murders and shootings in its history during their collaboration.</p><p>The DSA's call for Tisch's removal came after a shooting incident involving Oscar Belgal, a 28-year-old Dominican national, during a federal immigration operation in the Bronx. The Department of Homeland Security reported that Belgal was shot after allegedly not complying with officers' orders during the operation.</p><p>A spokesperson for City Hall indicated that Mamdani is reviewing the circumstances of the shooting but reiterated that he does not intend to remove Tisch from her position. Scott Munro, president of the Detectives' Endowment Association, expressed his belief that Mamdani supports Tisch, citing the decrease in crime as evidence of her effectiveness.</p><p>Mamdani and Tisch participated in the New York City Police Memorial ceremony, which honored 42 fallen NYPD members, including those who died due to illnesses related to the September 11 terrorist attacks. Mamdani paid tribute to the fallen officers and their families, stating, "While we cannot feel the silence they left behind, we will refuse to let their memory fade." Additionally, Mamdani announced a comprehensive review of the NYPD's use-of-force policies and reforms aimed at enhancing accountability for police misconduct.</p>