Apology from NYPD Commissioner Follows Controversial Remarks at Charity Gala

Apology from NYPD Commissioner Follows Controversial Remarks at Charity Gala

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani confirmed on Thursday that NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch extended a personal apology to his team. This followed remarks made by her brother during a high-profile charity dinner in Manhattan, where he labeled Tisch as an ‘enemy’ of the Jewish people.

At his Cocoa Chat community meeting, which focused on community engagement, Mamdani addressed the incident directly. He emphasized the significance of the apology and reiterated his commitment to serving all New Yorkers.

‘The commissioner apologized to my team for those remarks, and I look forward to being a mayor for each and every New Yorker, including Jewish New Yorkers,’ Mamdani stated, conveying his dedication to inclusivity.

Despite the recent tensions, Mamdani indicated that the incident would not undermine his working relationship with Commissioner Tisch. He has decided to retain her in the police commissioner role, despite some policy disagreements between them.

The Focus on Public Safety

In addressing his conversations with Commissioner Tisch, Mamdani highlighted that their primary focus should be on delivering public safety along with justice for all New Yorkers. He reflected, ‘The apology was one that she conveyed to the team. I appreciated it, and my focus is back on delivering.’

In a statement provided to Fox News Digital, NYPD spokesperson Brad Weekes echoed the importance of unity, stating, ‘I understand the fear in the Jewish community. My sincere belief is that the mayor-elect will live up to the commitment he’s made to be a mayor for all New Yorkers, including the Jewish community.’

The Incident at the Gala

The apology came in response to comments made by Benjamin Tisch, the billionaire CEO of Loews Corporation, during the Met Council’s annual gala. According to attendees, Benjamin Tisch identified Mamdani as an ‘enemy’ of the Jewish people. This moment caused a stir among those present, particularly given that Commissioner Tisch has agreed to continue leading the NYPD following Mamdani’s inauguration.

Witnesses described the atmosphere in the room as one of stunned silence. One attendee recounted, ‘It was just like, ‘wow, he’s actually going to go there.’’ The commentary from Benjamin Tisch drew considerable attention, and he has not commented on the incident publicly as of yet.

Background on Mamdani’s Views

Mamdani, a democratic socialist and outspoken critic of Israeli policies, has consistently rejected accusations that his views constitute antisemitism. His political stance has drawn both support and critique within various communities in New York City.

In a broader context, members of the Tisch family had previously contributed over $1 million to super PACs that opposed Mamdani during the 2025 mayoral race and supported former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Notably, Commissioner Tisch refrained from financial contributions during this time.

Moving Forward

Last month, Mamdani told the NY Daily News, ‘The two of us will not shy away from the fact that we hold disagreements on certain issues… but I also believe that these disagreements are not only reconcilable, but they are the sign of a healthy partnership to come.’

As Mamdani prepares for his inauguration on January 1, this incident serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics that often accompany leadership roles in a diverse city like New York.

Both Mayor-elect Mamdani and a representative for Benjamin Tisch did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.