Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani Appoints Ex-Rapper to Public Safety Role

New York City’s mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, has stirred controversy with his decision to appoint community activist and former rapper Mysonne Linen to his transition team, specifically for roles focused on public safety and criminal justice. The announcement, which emerged in a social media post from the social justice organization Until Freedom on November 26, has sparked intense debate regarding the implications of such a choice.

Linen, 49, is a Bronx native known for his work in social justice after serving seven years in prison for felony robbery. His criminal history includes convictions for the armed robbery of taxi drivers in 1999, where he was accused of using both a beer bottle and a firearm during the incidents. The taxi drivers, Joseph Exiri and Francisco Monsanto, both testified against him during the trial. Despite his legal troubles, Linen has since transitioned to a role in community activism, promoting anti-violence initiatives and civic engagement.

The announcement of his appointment highlighted Linen alongside prominent activists, including Tamika Mallory and Angelo Pinto. In the post, Until Freedom expressed pride in the selection of its leaders for Mamdani’s transition team, stating, “We are building something different.” This sentiment reflects the administration’s progressive vision, which Mamdani campaigned on during the elections.

Nevertheless, the decision has drawn criticism from various quarters. Groups concerned about public safety have raised alarms over appointing someone with a violent felony record to influence crime and policing policies in New York City. An organization known as Jews Fight Back vocalized its opposition on social media, referring to Linen’s past and questioning the wisdom of this appointment. They characterized the move as “insane,” emphasizing the potential risks involved in having a convicted armed robber help shape the city’s public safety priorities.

Despite the backlash, Linen remains undeterred. He reiterated his commitment to the cause on Instagram, stating, “We are building something different,” a phrase he has often used in his public addresses. His activism focuses on addressing violence and systemic injustices, and he has become a prominent voice in discussions surrounding these issues.

As Mamdani prepares to take office on January 1, 2026, this appointment will serve as a litmus test for public sentiment in New York City regarding the reimagining of public safety. The response from various community groups, residents, and policymakers will likely shape the direction of Mamdani’s administration and its approach to crime and safety in the city.