Mayoral Frontrunner Zohran Mamdani to Apologize for Past NYPD Criticism, Seeks Reconciliation

New York City mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 2025 election, has announced his intention to apologize for past remarks made in 2020 that characterized the New York Police Department as "racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety." This move is part of a broader effort by Mamdani to address significant skepticism from law enforcement and to build bridges with police unions as he campaigns for mayor. Political commentator Josh Barro noted this development as a "pleasant surprise and a positive display of practicality (and humility) from Mamdani."

Mamdani, a democratic socialist and New York State Assemblyman, explained that his 2020 comments, made during the height of frustration following the police killing of George Floyd, do not reflect his current views on public safety. He emphasized that police will be "critical partners" in delivering public safety for the city. This shift marks a notable departure from his previous "defund the police" stance, which has been a major point of contention and a vulnerability for his campaign.

The mayoral candidate has been actively engaging with police officers and showing openness to retaining the current Police Commissioner, Jessica Tisch, if elected. These efforts aim to mend relationships and gain trust within the law enforcement community. According to reports, Mamdani has held meetings with officers, including an event where he listened to concerns over biryani at a Queens restaurant.

Reactions from police unions have been mixed, reflecting a cautious approach. While 13 law enforcement unions have endorsed incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, the city’s largest police union, the Police Benevolent Association (PBA), has not yet endorsed any candidate. PBA President Patrick Hendry stated that Mamdani "has never reached out to us," indicating a wait-and-see attitude. However, the president of the Sergeants Benevolent Association, Vincent Vallelong, remains "steadfastly opposed" to a Mamdani administration.

Despite the skepticism from some police unions, Mamdani has garnered significant support from other labor organizations. The New York City Central Labor Council (NYC CLC), representing over one million workers across more than 300 unions, has endorsed his candidacy. This broad labor backing underscores a complex and fractured union landscape in the city's mayoral race, where police unions largely stand apart from other major labor groups.