Former FTC Chair Lina Khan is helping New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani map out the full range of powers available to him once he takes office on January 1. Mamdani tapped Khan as co-chair of his transition team, and she is now reviewing rarely used city laws that could strengthen his executive authority.
Khan said on the Pod Save America podcast that she wants Mamdani to understand every tool he can use without state approval. She is advising him on economic policy and staffing to support his goal of making the city more affordable.
Mamdani ran on a sweeping platform. He promised free citywide bus service, universal childcare, and a rent freeze for more than one million stabilized units. He expects these plans to require $10 billion in new revenue. He aims to raise that money from higher taxes on millionaires and corporations, though state leaders control tax policy. Governor Kathy Hochul has already said she does not plan to raise taxes.
Khan is also reviewing rules involving algorithmic pricing, junk fees, and surveillance-based pricing. Her role has drawn criticism from billionaire investor Daniel Loeb, who opposed Mamdani’s campaign. Still, Khan says she wants the new administration to use every lawful authority to deliver its promises.
