New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has established the Office of Mass Engagement via executive order. The creation of the office follows his campaign, which mobilized a volunteer base focused on affordability.
Office Leadership and Scope
Tascha Van Auken has been appointed to lead the new office. Van Auken previously oversaw Mamdani’s campaign field operations, which involved over 90,000 volunteers.
The Office of Mass Engagement will integrate and oversee several existing city units, including the Public Engagement Unit, the Mayor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships, NYC Service, and the Civic Engagement Commission.
Stated Objectives
Mayor Mamdani stated that the office aims to create a deeper connection between City Hall and community organizations, faith-based groups, and New Yorkers. He articulated that the initiative is intended to address what he described as a historical disconnect between city government and its constituents.
Van Auken commented that the office seeks to demystify government processes, facilitating participation for New Yorkers and providing resources for support in areas such as eviction, unemployment, and care for loved ones.
Details and Further Appointments
During a press conference held at Brooklyn’s Grand Army Plaza, Mamdani and Van Auken did not provide specific details regarding the office's budget or the exact methods of engagement it would employ. Van Auken stated that the office would streamline previously siloed public engagement efforts under a coordinated structure.
Regarding the potential for the office to mobilize volunteers to advocate for the Mayor’s agenda, such as pressuring the governor for tax increases, Mamdani stated that successes would be achieved in collaboration with New Yorkers. He indicated that the agenda would involve advocacy from residents beyond government settings.
Separately, Mayor Mamdani also announced the appointment of Ali Najmi as the chair of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee on the Judiciary. Van Auken is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America and has previously managed campaigns for State Senator Julia Salazar and Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest.