FDNY commissioner Robert Tucker has announced his resignation following Zohran Mamdani’s electoral victory as New York City’s next mayor. Tucker, who was appointed by Mayor Eric Adams in August 2024, did not specify the reasons for his departure but stated in a public statement that he would step down on December 19, 2025, to ensure an orderly transition. The commissioner, a Jewish philanthropist and businessman, will return to leading his private security firm, T&M, after serving just over a year in the role.
Tucker’s resignation coincided with plans for him to travel to Israel later this week to meet with Israeli fire officials. Sources indicated that Tucker felt unable to continue under Mamdani’s leadership, who becomes the first Muslim mayor of New York City. Mamdani secured 50.6% of the vote in Tuesday’s election, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo. The new mayor has faced criticism for his stance on Israel amid the Gaza conflict but pledged to address antisemitism during his campaign.
The FDNY, which oversees approximately 17,000 employees and a $2.6 billion budget, is now without its leader as Tucker prepares to leave. No further details about his resignation were provided by officials.