Mamdani appoints two deputy mayors, introducing a new role focused on economic justice.

In a significant move ahead of his inauguration, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced the appointment of two seasoned officials to critical deputy mayoral positions aimed at addressing housing and economic justice. Leila Bozorg will take on the role of deputy mayor for housing, while Julie Su is named deputy mayor for economic justice. These announcements were made during a press conference held on Staten Island, as Mamdani prepares to officially assume office on January 1.

Mamdani expressed his anticipation for the impact of Bozorg and Su, emphasizing their collaborative approach in fulfilling his administration’s commitment to enhancing affordability throughout New York City. He stated that the success of his team would be measured by their ability to connect with and represent the needs of New Yorkers who have historically felt overlooked by municipal governance.

Currently serving as the executive director of housing in the outgoing administration led by Mayor Eric Adams, Bozorg brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in city government, including a position as deputy commissioner at the Department of Housing Preservation and Development during the tenure of former Mayor Bill de Blasio. In her new role, she will spearhead initiatives to create thousands of new rent-stabilized units and implement policies aimed at freezing rents for existing stabilized tenants, aligning with Mamdani’s housing strategy.

Meanwhile, Su, who held the position of acting Secretary of Labor under President Biden, will oversee a newly established role focused on economic justice. This portfolio includes oversight of the Taxi and Limousine Commission and several city departments, such as Small Business Services and Consumer and Worker Protection. This innovative appointment reflects Mamdani’s dedication to integrating economic equity within his administration’s broader objectives.

The announcement of these appointments follows a day of challenges for Mamdani’s transition team, particularly the abrupt withdrawal of Catherine Almonte Da Costa from the role of City Hall director of appointments due to resurfaced controversial social media posts. Addressing this setback, Mamdani assured reporters that he is refining the vetting process for future appointments, emphasizing his commitment to ethical standards and accountability within his administration.

As Mamdani prepares for his incoming administration, the appointments of Bozorg and Su are seen as strategic moves to tackle pressing issues facing New Yorkers, particularly in housing and economic sectors, which have become focal points of concern during his campaign. The upcoming months will be pivotal as Mamdani’s team works to implement policies that resonate with the diverse needs of the city’s residents.