Saturday, March 29, 2025
“Many People Will Die”: Elon Musk Slams NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Over Fire Commissioner Pick
New York, December 27, 2025 – Tesla CEO Elon Musk has unleashed sharp criticism against New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s appointment of Lillian Bonsignore as the next Fire Commissioner, warning that her lack of firefighting experience could cost lives in emergencies.
On social media platform X, Musk questioned the decision, noting Bonsignore has never served as a firefighter. “He can say it won’t affect her work, but we can’t afford to take chances. This could lead to deaths because when lives are at stake, proven experience matters,” Musk wrote, emphasizing the risks of placing an inexperienced leader in such a critical role.
Mamdani announced on Tuesday that Bonsignore, a 31-year veteran of the FDNY, would take over as commissioner on January 1, coinciding with his inauguration. She previously led the department’s EMS services and will be the first openly gay commissioner and second woman in the role. Mamdani praised her service during crises like the 9/11 attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic, calling her a hero. Critics, however, highlight her lack of direct firefighting experience as a major concern.
Tensions between Musk and Mamdani are not new. During the election, Musk backed former Governor Andrew Cuomo and opposed the Republican candidate, both of whom lost to Mamdani’s historic victory. As a prominent Trump supporter, Musk has clashed with the mayor-elect multiple times.
The dispute has sparked debate over merit versus diversity in public safety leadership, with Musk’s warning amplifying calls for scrutiny of the appointment.
