New Public Engagement Officer Appointed by Mayor Mamdani

Mayor Zoran Mamdani took a significant step on Friday, appointing a veteran Democratic Socialists of America member to infuse the group’s grassroots strategy into City Hall.

He issued an executive order to establish a “Public Engagement Officer” role and assigned Tasha Van Auken, who had previously served as the field director for the mayor’s campaign, to oversee the city’s communications and outreach efforts.

Mamdani expressed that city government has often catered to the wealthy while neglecting working-class New Yorkers, stating that he aims to foster a closer connection with the community.

Van Auken began her political journey by working on the campaigns of Julia Salazar for the state Senate and Farah Sfrant-Forest for Congress, both of whom are part of the DSA.

Before this appointment, she was the deputy campaign manager for the Working Families Party.

Under Van Auken’s leadership, the new agency is expected to launch a public outreach initiative aimed at involving New Yorkers in the decision-making processes of Mamdani’s administration.

Details were sparse regarding how the office would be structured or what agencies it would encompass, including the Department of Public Engagement and others, leaving many questions about its size and budget unanswered.

Mamdani suggested that this initiative would help engage communities that have felt excluded from local politics.

Long-time strategist Hank Shenkopf weighed in, noting the increased demand for various public services, hinting at the need for more support in different sectors.

The establishment of this office has drawn comparisons to former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration, particularly noted for his extensive promotional campaigns during his early tenure.