Mamdani selects Pakistani-American for key role in transition team

Following his election, Zohran Mamdani has named Pakistani-American legal expert Lina Khan, the former chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to co-chair his transition team as he prepares to take up the office as the Mayor of New York City on January 1, 2026. The appointment signals the incoming administration’s focus on reform and regulations. 

Khan, 36, who led the FTC under the Joe Biden administration and built her reputation as a strong antimonopoly regulator, will join three other veteran city officials in leading the transition. 

The transition team also includes Maria Torres-Springer-a former first deputy mayor, Grace Bonilla-a non-profit executive and Melanie Hartzog-a budget expert.

Khan stated, “New Yorkers sent a clear message that it’s time to build a city that working people can actually afford. I’m excited to help Zohran build a team that will usher in a new era for New York City and set a new model for Democratic governance.” 

Khan played a significant role during Biden’s administration in the scrutiny of major mergers, challenging large tech firms, and defending consumers from unfair practices. 

Her appointment in Mamdani’s team signals that his administration may focus on regulatory oversight and affordability at the centre of its plan, especially as the city manages a budget of $116 billion and serves a population facing high living costs. 

Analysts observe that this move may affect corporate interests and signal a more reform-oriented approach at City Hall. Progressives appreciate Khan’s prior record of taking on major corporations such as Amazon and Meta. 

As the transition team begins its work over the next seven to eight weeks, attention will turn to City Hall’s key appointments, the policy on rent, grocery affordability, transit and community safety and how smoothly the Mamdani administration can turn the campaign’s ambitious promises into reality.