Mamdani announces transition team of 400 members, featuring former officials from the Adams administration.

Zohran Mamdani has made significant strides in assembling his transition team, which he unveiled on Monday. This team is characterized by its diversity and inclusion of former officials from the Adams administration, many of whom were dismissed or resigned during the current mayor’s tenure. Notable figures on the team include ex-Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, former Fire Department Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, and Hassan Naveed, previously the chief of hate crimes under Adams. Naveed has publicly criticized the administration for what he perceives as anti-Muslim bias following his termination. Additionally, Arva Rice, who held the position of chair at the Civilian Complaint Review Board until being asked to step down, is also part of Mamdani’s transition efforts.

Mamdani’s transition team comprises a total of 400 members organized into 17 committees. This is a notable reduction compared to Eric Adams’ transition team, which had around 700 members, and significantly larger than Bill de Blasio’s team, which featured only 60 members. The members of Mamdani’s team are serving in unpaid capacities, tasked with preparing for his administration, which commences on January 1, 2025. Their responsibilities include reviewing approximately 70,000 applications for positions within the government.

Mamdani emphasized the historical significance of this opportunity to reshape New York City, expressing confidence in his team during a press conference held in Harlem. The team includes pro-business advocates, such as Kathy Wylde, who leads the Partnership for New York City, along with Yasser Salem, known for his support of Mamdani during the election.

The transition team also boasts a strong representation from community advocates, particularly within the Community Safety and Youth and Education committees. Organizations such as VOCAL NY, Make the Road, and New York Appleseed are represented, securing voices from grassroots movements focused on social justice and public safety. Among the notable individuals included is Rodney Harrison, who had been considered a potential police commissioner.

While Mamdani’s team has a wealth of experience, some expected names for public school leadership positions, such as Jamaal Bowman and former Schools Chancellor Meisha Ross Porter, did not make the list. Additionally, Mamdani previously announced his transition co-chairs, which include prominent figures such as Maria Torres-Springer and former Federal Trade Commission Chairwoman Lina Khan.

With this diverse transition team, Mamdani appears poised to launch his administration on a foundation of both innovation and experience, setting a tone for his upcoming term aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges facing New York City.

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