Incoming NYC Mayor’s Potential for Tackling Crime
Former NYPD Inspector Paul Mauro shared his thoughts on FOX Business regarding the incoming New York City Mayor, Zoran Mamdani, suggesting he might find it easier to address violent crime compared to the outgoing Mayor, Eric Adams.
Mauro pointed out that the New York City Council has consistently obstructed Adams’ efforts related to immigration enforcement, particularly with initiatives involving the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at Rikers Island. During his appearance on “The Evening Edit,” he mentioned that the entrenched Congressional resistance might require a leader who understands that complex political landscape.
“We really need someone like Mamdani to tackle this, as others have mentioned. The city council, along with Eric Adams, has been a significant roadblock,” Mauro said to host Elizabeth McDonald. “To actually make progress, we might need a democratic socialist, aligned with the city council. Sure, he could issue orders, but the council will likely resist.”
Moreover, the City Council recently overruled Adams by vetoing a bill aimed at banning solitary confinement and enacting new police reporting requirements in January 2024. Council members also sought to modify parts of Adams’ mental health strategies while limiting the NYPD’s discretion.
Mauro noted that Mamdani’s political alignment could provide him with an advantage that Adams didn’t have.
“Mamdani may be the key to navigating these challenges. It’s concerning, in a way,” Mauro remarked. “I think there will be some adjustments needed for the next mayor. The National Guard is already active in New York, with Governor Hochul deploying 1,000 troops to the subway system.”
He highlighted that the National Guard has smoothly supported transit operations in New York for many years without any significant issues. “The Governor attributes a 42 percent drop in crime partly to their presence. They’ve been around since 9/11, and surprisingly, things have remained steady. Maybe that’s something that hasn’t been made clear to him. They’re doing well already. But these two—Mamdani and Hochul—need to collaborate effectively. I’m cautiously optimistic, though I’m tempering my expectations,” Mauro said.
Amid rising crime rates in New York City, Governor Hochul decided to deploy 750 National Guard troops and 250 state troopers in March 2024 to enhance subway safety. Following this move, she praised the New York National Guard for their role in reducing incidents within the subway system while assisting state and transit police.

