Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has selected retired EMS chief Lillian Bonsignore to lead the Fire Department of New York City, marking her as the first openly gay person in the role. Bonsignore, with 31 years in emergency medical services, will assume the position on January 1 after serving during the COVID-19 pandemic. The appointment highlights her extensive department experience despite lacking firefighting background.
On Tuesday, Zohran Mamdani announced Lillian Bonsignore's appointment as commissioner of the Fire Department of New York City (FDNY), emphasizing her historic role as the first openly gay leader. Bonsignore, who retired after 31 years as an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provider, previously headed EMS operations amid the COVID-19 crisis. Though she never served as a firefighter, Mamdani praised her deep understanding of the department's needs.
Bonsignore addressed the challenges of returning to work, stating, “It was a little hard [to come out of retirement], it’s a hard decision, but I’m looking forward to it, I’m happy to do it.” She expressed discomfort with the focus on her identity, noting, “It’s kind of odd that the thing I get celebrated for the most – people are always like, ‘Wow, you’re a woman and you’re gay’ – are the two things I put the least work into.” Mamdani highlighted the milestone, saying, “I am proud that Lillian will make history as the first openly gay person to head up the department.”
Concerns arose over her non-firefighting experience. Bonsignore responded, “I can see how that might be a concern, being fire is the primary word... I have spent thirty years working in this fire department alongside every EMT, paramedic, firefighter, support staff... I know the job, I know what the firefighters need, and I can translate that to this administration who’s willing to listen.” Mamdani added, “One of the things that makes me so excited... is her bringing more than thirty years of experience and her having a real understanding... of what is required of the incredible New Yorkers who do this work each and every day.”
The announcement came just one hour before outgoing Mayor Eric Adams installed his choice, Mark Guerra, a 37-year veteran firefighter elevated from first deputy commissioner. Adams described Guerra as “a true hero and protector of New Yorkers,” who will serve until January 1, when Mamdani takes office and Bonsignore begins.
Looking ahead, Bonsignore aims to prioritize public education, saying, “I think the public education you’re going to find is going to be a big part of my administration.” Both she and Mamdani stressed the need to inform New Yorkers on appropriate 911 use to ease system strain from unnecessary calls.
