Mamdani Reverses NYPD Hiring Push Amid Budget Talks

Mayor Zohran Mamdani reversed a plan to hire additional NYPD officers during budget negotiations, opting to keep the department at its originally authorized 35,000 headcount while pursuing new crime-fighting programs. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said she could manage without more officers as the city grapples with budget constraints; current headcount is about 34,000, with Tisch previously aiming for 35,555 by the end of 2026. The move followed pressure from policing-reform advocates and progressive groups, underscoring Mamdani’s attempt to balance his campaign promises with governance and his relationship with the police leadership.