In a move that could reshape New York City’s political landscape, Mamdani has selected a highly prominent figure with a strong international background to help steer his incoming administration. But here’s where it gets interesting—this appointment isn’t just about local politics; it’s about blending global expertise with domestic governance. The newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who is set to take office on January 1, 2026, at just 34 years old, will oversee the city’s sprawling $116 billion budget and face intense scrutiny from around the world.
Joining him in this pivotal transition is Lina Maliha Khan, a distinguished Pakistani-American legal scholar renowned for her leadership at the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). At 36, Khan’s role as FTC Chair during President Biden’s administration placed her at the forefront of major antitrust and consumer protection initiatives. Her appointment as co-chair of the transition team signals a bold move—she will work alongside three seasoned veterans from New York City’s government, contributing her expertise to shape the city’s future.
In her official statement, Khan expressed her enthusiasm about the direction New Yorkers want their city to take: “The message from voters was clear—it’s time to rebuild a city where working people genuinely can afford to live. I look forward to helping Zohran assemble a team capable of launching a new chapter for New York City and establishing a fresh blueprint for Democratic leadership.”
Khan’s influence extends beyond just city policy. During her tenure at the FTC, she was instrumental in advancing Biden’s anti-monopoly and consumer rights agenda. Her tenure was marked by increased scrutiny of corporate mergers and aggressive efforts to protect Americans from unfair business practices, including deceptive fees and binding arbitration clauses that often favor corporations over consumers.
While her stance on breaking up tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft earned her praise from progressive circles, it also drew criticism from some Silicon Valley titans and conservative commentators who viewed her approach as overly aggressive. Her willingness to challenge industry giants made her a polarizing figure—lauded by many Democrats and even some Republicans, such as Senator J.D. Vance and former White House strategist Steve Bannon, who recognized her as a formidable opponent of corporate monopolies.
This appointment raises questions about how a figure with such a strong national and international reputation will influence local governance. Will her bold stance against corporate power translate into effective policies at the city level? Or will her presence stir controversy, prompting debates about the balance between regulatory oversight and economic growth? And perhaps most provocatively—does her appointment signify a new era of leadership that challenges the status quo, or will it create tensions within the political landscape?
What’s your take? Do you see her appointment as a positive step toward more progressive city policies, or could it lead to unforeseen conflicts? Share your thoughts below—this is a conversation worth having.