Police Commissioner Responds to Speculation About Future Candidacy
During a breakfast event on Saturday, Police Commissioner Jessica Tish was asked whether she would consider running for mayor in four years. She promptly clarified her stance: “I’m not a politician. I’m a civil servant,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to her current role.
Supporters have expressed confidence in her performance as police chief, with one source remarking, “People think she does a great job.” Tish, 44, has been recognized for her approach to leadership, which many believe has positively impacted the city.
Introduced by First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, Tish spoke for about 30 minutes on various topics relevant to New Yorkers. Notably, she discussed former President Trump’s position on deploying National Guard troops or military forces to the city.
Highlighting current crime trends, she noted, “Violent crime is at a record low,” citing Gotham’s murder rate and various statistics that reflect a decrease in violence.
In her address, Tish reaffirmed her belief in the NYPD, calling it “the best police station and the best trained.” However, she also addressed the recent anti-Israel protests, labeling them “creepy and nasty,” while underscoring the importance of upholding free speech rights.
Her passion for her role as police chief was evident as she mentioned her past experiences as a sanitation commissioner, where she focused on finding ways to improve city cleanliness.
The breakfast had approximately 100 attendees, including supporters of former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Eric Adams, but there seemed to be a notable enthusiasm for Democratic candidate Zoran Mamdani.
In a lighter vein, Tish shared some community insights, mentioning the ongoing discussions on handling mumps ticks around the city.
The event was co-hosted by John Cassimatidis, an influential grocery magnate and owner of WABC Radio. In attendance was her father, James Tish, adding a personal touch to the occasion.
