Jewish FDNY Commissioner Resigns Over Mayor-Elect’s Anti-Israel Stance

Robert Tucker, New York City’s Fire Commissioner and a respected Jewish leader, has broken his silence on the decision to abruptly resign following Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the mayoral election. Speaking on CBS Mornings, Tucker revealed that Mamdani’s long record of anti-Israel rhetoric and the administration’s refusal to engage with the FDNY made it untenable for him to remain in his role.

“Ideologically, there’s no doubt the mayor and I disagree on very fundamental things,” Tucker said. “I didn’t want to leave this much unfinished business, but I thought it was the right time to depart.”

Tucker’s resignation came just hours after the polls closed, surprising many city officials. While initial statements offered little explanation, it’s now clear that Mamdani’s past statements, affiliations, and lack of outreach were central to the decision.

Though Tucker was careful to note that it wasn’t the only reason, he acknowledged that Mamdani’s views on Israel played a major role. “The things I’ve heard the mayor say would make it difficult for me to continue in such a senior executive role,” he stated.

Of equal concern, Tucker said, was the complete silence from the mayor-elect’s incoming administration. “I haven’t heard from anyone,” he shared. “Nor has the department. I hope that’s not an indication of how they feel about the FDNY.”

For many Jewish New Yorkers and first responders, Tucker’s resignation reflects a growing unease. Mamdani has a well-documented history of antagonism toward Israel, frequently aligning himself with fringe groups known for promoting hatred and misinformation. That alarm grew louder after an antisemitic mob targeted Park East Synagogue, chanting “Death to the IDF” and “globalize the intifada” during a peaceful event supporting Jewish immigration to Israel.

Tucker pointed to that incident and Mamdani’s refusal to condemn it as another sign that the city may be heading into dangerous territory. His resignation letter, addressed to Mayor Eric Adams, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve, calling his time at the FDNY “the honor of a lifetime.” He will officially step down on December 19, 2025.

Mayor Adams and firefighter unions praised Tucker’s leadership, emphasizing his commitment to public safety and the people of New York.

Mamdani now faces the challenge of leading a department whose outgoing head has publicly stated he cannot, in good conscience, serve under his leadership. He also faces a Jewish community that feels increasingly threatened not just by rising antisemitism in the streets, but by silence and inaction at the top.

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