New York City’s Future Mayor on Immigration Enforcement

New York City’s incoming mayor, Zoran Mamdani, recently responded to federal immigration enforcement plans announced by border czar Tom Homan. Mamdani made it clear that under his leadership, the New York City Police Department (NYPD) would not assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

This statement aligns with Mamdani’s campaign commitment that the NYPD would not collaborate with agencies like ICE during his tenure. “We can’t go back to when Eric Adams was on national television with the NYPD enforcing civilian immigration laws,” Mamdani shared in an interview with PIX11 News. “People are scared.” He emphasized that the NYPD’s role would be focused on public safety, rather than supporting ICE’s enforcement goals which he described as aiming to establish the largest deportation force in U.S. history.

Mamdani’s remarks came at a time when past comments he made about the NYPD surfaced, generating discussions about his views. Responding to questions regarding the NYPD’s cooperation with ICE, particularly after NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch was reportedly “tipped off” about previous ICE activities, Mamdani stated he would direct police not to support ICE operations.

Under the previous Adams administration, it was said that the NYPD had been authorized to assist in criminal immigration enforcement. However, a spokesperson clarified that this did not extend to civilian enforcement. Despite speculation over their differing ideologies, Mamdani confirmed that Tisch would remain as police chief.

One notable point of contention between Mamdani and Tisch has been the existence of the Strategic Response Group, a specialized unit within the NYPD for large-scale incidents. Mamdani indicated there would be no such group during his administration.

When asked if he made any compromises to retain Tisch’s position, Mamdani refrained from confirming anything particular. “The reason I want to keep her in this position is due to her achievements. It’s not about overhauling everything,” he explained. “We have shared views on the idea that police shouldn’t have to manage the failings of our social safety net—that’s city government’s role.”

Additionally, Mamdani reiterated his intention to maintain current staffing levels within the NYPD, countering Tisch’s wish for an increase in numbers. When queried about governance responsibilities with Tisch, he plainly stated, “I will have the final say.”