ByYOAV ETIEL
Updated:

The former fire commissioner of New York City, Robert Tucker, submitted his resignation the day after the mayoral election, after he learned of Zohran Mamdani’s victory. 

Tucker, who is Jewish, visited Israel after the mayoral election and stated that he believed that Mamdani should appoint his own fire commissioner. 

“I don’t deny that it’s because of the election of this mayor, and it’s no secret. It’s not a protest act,” Tucker said.

“I also think I could have functioned well under him, but ideologically, our feelings are different. Therefore, I think he deserves the respect of appointing his own commissioner, someone who may be more aligned with him ideologically than I am.”

A Jewish businessman and philanthropist known for his support of Israel, Tucker is expected to serve until December 19, 2025, according to his official resignation notice, allowing for a smooth transition to his successor.

Robert Tucker, the Jewish Fire Commissioner of New York City, who resigned the day after the mayoral election as soon as news of Zoharn Mamedani's election became known, on a visit to the Western Wall. (credit: Section 27A
Robert Tucker, the Jewish Fire Commissioner of New York City, who resigned the day after the mayoral election as soon as news of Zoharn Mamedani's election became known, on a visit to the Western Wall. (credit: Section 27A(a) of the Copyright Law, Walla)

Former NYC fire commissioner visits Israel

“I wish the elected mayor success,” he added. “But I have the luxury of returning to my security business. It’s also no secret that I love Israel and I love the Jewish people. I am Jewish, and my Jewish roots are deeply rooted in Israel. Ideologically, I hope the mayor-elect will begin to see how important Israel is, how important the Jewish people are, and how Jews feel in New York City.”

Tucker said he has never spoken directly with Mamdani. “I’ve only read what he thinks and about his views, and I understood that the best thing for me and for the city is to return to the private sector and to my business,” he said.

While in Israel, Tucker met with officials from the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority and began his visit on Friday with several stops, including Yad Vashem, Jerusalem’s Old City, the Western Wall, a fire station, a Border Police facility, and the 9/11 Memorial, where he laid a wreath and held a brief memorial ceremony.

He had also been scheduled to hold professional meetings and tour the Gaza border region, including discussions with firefighters and visits to battle and heritage sites connected to the October 7 attacks.

However, Tucker cut his visit short after learning that a firefighter had been killed battling a fire in New York.