New York City’s incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has stirred controversy by choosing Lillian Bonsignore as the new head of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), despite her lack of traditional firefighting experience. Bonsignore, set to assume the role of Commissioner on January 1, will become the first openly gay leader of the FDNY and only the second woman to hold this position in its history. With over three decades of service in the department, Bonsignore has climbed the ranks to become its highest-ranking uniformed woman. Her most recent role was as the chief of EMS Operations from 2019 to 2020.

Within the FDNY EMS division, Bonsignore is a respected figure, drawing comparisons to New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who remains part of Mamdani’s administration, as reported by ABC 7. Nevertheless, her appointment has sparked backlash, particularly among MAGA supporters, including notable figures like Elon Musk. The Tesla CEO expressed his disapproval on social media, proclaiming, “Lives are at risk; proven experience is essential.” Texas Senator Ted Cruz added a touch of sarcasm, suggesting the appointment is ideal, “Unless there’s a fire…”

Mayor Mamdani acknowledged Bonsignore’s lack of firefighting experience but lauded her as a “trailblazer for the LGBTQ community” and the first openly gay commissioner of the FDNY. He defended his decision by highlighting Bonsignore’s extensive 30-year tenure at EMS, the unit responsible for managing 70% of FDNY’s incoming calls. New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Ischol also supported Bonsignore, criticizing detractors for spreading misinformation that undermines public confidence. Ischol took to social media, stating, “I have worked directly with Chief Lillian Bonsignore and find the lies being told about her experience to be reprehensible, as they sow mistrust in someone New Yorkers need to feel comfortable with.”

‘Chief Bonsignore is one of the most competent, experienced, and respected city leaders. She steps into this role with 31 years of experience and the respect of her department, including the rank and file. I’d follow her anywhere. I’m looking forward to working with her again and will sleep better knowing she’s at the helm of NYC’s bravest, FDNY.’ The Daily Mail has contacted Mamdani and Bonsignore for comment. Bonsignore began her career working as an EMT, before becoming lieutenant, captain and deputy chief. She was part of the response to the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center and has used her position to advocate for increased pay for EMS workers. She served as the FDNY Chief of EMS Operations from 2019-2022 during the COVID pandemic. ‘She was the highest-ranking Officer in the EMS command, the highest-ranking uniformed female in FDNY and the first female to achieve a 4-star rank in the history of FDNY,’ her profile on Responder Resilience states. Latterly she has held a role as a senior advisor for Cambridge Consulting Group.

Despite her resume, many online commenters agreed with Musk and Cruz’s concerns. ‘That’s like having a lifeguard who can’t swim,’ one person wrote on X. ‘This is ridiculous. You can not command a fire department if you never did the job. Their union should grieve this. The public will support them,’ another added. ‘The appointment of Lillian Bonsignore as Fire Commissioner of the Fire Department of the City of New York is not just baffling. It is infuriating. And most importantly, it is life-threateningly DANGEROUS,’ a third agreed.