Mayor-Elect Mamdani Annouces His Top 2 City Hall Deputies: See Who They Are

NEW YORK CITY — New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has announced his picks for first deputy mayor and chief of staff on Monday.

Mamdani appointed Dean Fuleihan as his first deputy mayor and Elle Bisgaard-Church as chief of staff.

Fuleihan previously served as former Mayor Bill de Blasio's first deputy mayor and has been a part of Mamdani's team since he won the primary. In the de Blasio administration, Fuleihan oversaw the Office of Management and Budget, the Office of Labor Relations, and the Office of Climate Policy and Programs. His career in politics dates back to 1978.

Bisgaard-Church has served as Mamdani's campaign adviser and chief and staff. She will hold the same title when he becomes mayor in January.

"The work of government begins here, by ensuring that those we choose to lead it do so with a singular goal: delivering for working New Yorkers," Mamdani told reporters at a press conference Monday. "With Dean Fuleihan as First Deputy Mayor and Elle Bisgaard-Church as Chief of Staff, I have no doubt we will build a powerful and competent administration that delivers an affordable, livable city for working people."

Last Tuesday, Mamdani announced an all-woman transition team as he prepares to take office.

Mamdani's transition team will consist of a former top aide from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, as well as individuals who've worked with former mayor Bill de Blasio and Michael Bloomberg.

Elana Leopold, who worked in the de Blasio administration, former First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer, former Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, nonprofit president Grace Bonilla and Melanie Hartzog have been named to the transition team.