Elon Musk has voiced his disapproval of Zohran Mamdani’s decision in appointing the new head of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY).
Last month, Mamdani achieved a significant victory by being elected as the mayor of NYC.
This victory was noted as ‘historic’ as the 34-year-old became the first Muslim, South Asian, and the youngest individual in a century to assume the role of New York’s mayor.
A Democratic socialist, Mamdani has outlined various policy proposals, such as instituting a universal childcare program, implementing ‘fast and free’ city buses, and imposing taxes on the city’s wealthiest citizens (via CNN).
This week, Mamdani, who is set to take office on January 1, appointed Lillian Bonsignore, a 31-year FDNY veteran, as commissioner.
“The first woman to achieve a 4-star rank in FDNY history, she’s joining us as the FDNY Commissioner to bring her crisis leadership and operational expertise to this administration,” Mamdani wrote on X.
During a news conference, Bonsignore expressed: “I am honored, so honored, and humbled to stand before you as the new fire commissioner.
“This appointment represents a significant responsibility, one I accept with humility, dedication and a deep sense of commitment to the city and its people.”
However, not everyone supported the decision, with Musk expressing his disapproval on X.
He stated: “People will die because of this. Proven experience matters when lives are at stake.”
Mamdani quickly countered Musk’s remarks, responding: “Experience does matter, which is why I appointed the person who spent more than 30 years at EMS. You know, the workforce that addresses at least 70% of all calls coming into FDNY?”
People will die because of this. Proven experience matters when lives are at stake. https://t.co/HV4kodU2aI
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 26, 2025
Despite facing some criticism, Mamdani has also garnered praise for his decision to appoint Bonsignore.
On LinkedIn, former FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, the first woman to hold the position, commended the decision, writing: “When I was sworn in, I said it only meant something to be first if I wasn’t the last. I’m so happy I didn’t have to wait long for that to be the case.
“Mayor-elect Mamdani has made a terrific choice, and the City and FDNY are lucky to have her.”
Bonsignore will officially take on the role once Mamdani assumes office on January 1.
The appointment aligns with current Mayor Eric Adams’ recent announcement, where he introduced a new fire commissioner for the concluding days of his administration.
“Under our administration, keeping New Yorkers safe and protected has always been our North Star, and having principled, qualified public servants in place to lead our critical public safety agencies is crucial to fulfilling that goal; there’s no person who meets those high standards (like) Commissioner Mark Guerra,” Adams stated.