FDNY commissioner Robert Tucker announced his resignation on Wednesday following Zohran Mamdani’s electoral victory to become New York City’s next mayor. Tucker, who was appointed by Mayor Eric Adams in August 2024, did not specify the reason for his decision. In a statement, he thanked Adams for his support and stated his intention to step down effective Friday, December 19, 2025, while ensuring an orderly transition.
Tucker, a Jewish philanthropist and businessman, will return to leading his private security firm, T&M, after serving just over 12 months in the role. His resignation came as he was set to travel to Israel later Wednesday for meetings with Israeli fire officials. Sources indicated Tucker’s departure followed tensions related to Mamdani’s election.
Mamdani, who secured 50.6% of the vote in Tuesday’s mayoral race, becomes the first Muslim mayor of New York City. He has faced criticism for his stance on Israel amid the Gaza conflict but pledged during his campaign to address antisemitism. The fire commissioner, appointed by the mayor, oversees 17,000 employees and a $2.6 billion budget. Tucker’s predecessor, Laura Kavanagh, had served as the department’s 35th commissioner before his tenure.