From grassroots activism to City Hall, the profile of Zohran Mamdani’s Chief of Staff
“I still feel daily, deeply ashamed to live in a place where we allow people to sleep on concrete at night … and I fundamentally believe it doesn’t have to be that way. It represents (a) political choice”. Elle Bisgaard-Church (City&State New York)
Elle Bisgaard-Church is an American political adviser who, as of January 2026, serves as Chief of Staff to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Born in California in 1991, she grew up in an environment shaped by strong social engagement; from a young age she was involved in volunteer work, particularly supporting people experiencing homelessness, an experience that helped guide her political path.
She studied at Swarthmore College, where she became interested in social journalism, activism, and peace issues, including through the production of radio programs. She later continued her education with a dual master’s degree in public administration from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, focusing especially on fiscal policy, economic equity, and the role of public institutions.
Her political career is closely tied to that of Zohran Mamdani. From 2020 to 2024 she served as Chief of Staff to his office in the New York State Assembly, playing a key role in developing his legislative agenda and strengthening ties with progressive movements and grassroots supporters. She later worked as campaign manager for Mamdani’s mayoral run, helping transform what was initially seen as a marginal candidacy into a significant political victory.
As Chief of Staff at City Hall, Bisgaard-Church is now one of the most influential figures in the city administration. She coordinates the mayor’s staff, oversees the implementation of policy priorities, and plays a central role in translating the campaign platform into concrete policies, with a particular focus on affordability, social justice, and structural reforms. Her responsibilities include managing internal decision-making processes, coordinating across city departments, and providing strategic support for the administration’s major policy choices.
Aligned with the progressive left and close to the Democratic Socialists of America, Bisgaard-Church is widely regarded as a discreet but highly effective strategist. While maintaining a low public profile, her influence is considered central to shaping the political and organizational direction of New York City’s new administration.
Mayor
- Zohran Mamdani – Mayor of New York City. A progressive focused on social justice, economic accessibility, and urban reforms. He aims to make the city more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable.
First Deputy Mayor
- Dean Fuleihan – Brings extensive experience in city financial and operational management. Former First Deputy Mayor and budget director, he coordinates the administration and ensures policies are feasible.
Chief of Staff
- Elle Bisgaard‑Church – Oversees the mayor’s internal operations and coordination across departments. Ensures the smooth execution of the political agenda and effective internal communication.
Deputy Mayors
- Leila Bozorg – Housing and Planning – Handles housing policy and urban planning. Works to increase access to affordable housing and improve city development.
- Julie Su – Economic Justice – Oversees economic and social policies with a focus on wage equity, workers’ rights, and supporting vulnerable communities.
- Helen Arteaga – Health and Human Services – Manages public health and social services. Ensures universal access to healthcare, family support, and social programs.
- Julia Kerson – Operations – Coordinates the city’s day-to-day operations. Optimizes administrative processes and ensures policies are implemented efficiently.
Other Key Roles
- Sherif Soliman – Budget Director – Manages the city budget and financial planning. Ensures fiscal sustainability and transparency in public spending.
- Jahmila Edwards – Director of Intergovernmental Affairs – Oversees collaboration between city, state, and federal government. Works to secure funding and coordinate intergovernmental projects.
- Ramzi Kassem – Chief Counsel – Provides legal advice to the mayor. Supports policy decisions, legislation, and legal matters.
- Louise Yeung – Director of Climate and Environmental Justice – Leads climate policy, sustainability, and environmental justice initiatives, reducing the city’s ecological impact.
- Jessica Tisch – NYPD Commissioner – Leads the New York Police Department. Focused on public safety, police reforms, and community engagement.
- Lillian Bonsignore – Fire Commissioner – Oversees fire and emergency services. Ensures city safety and risk prevention.
- Kamar Samuels – Schools Chancellor – Manages the city’s education system. Implements educational reforms and ensures equitable access to schooling.
- Mike Flynn – Department of Transportation Commissioner – Oversees transportation and urban infrastructure. Improves mobility, road safety, and public transit.
- Cea Weaver – Director of the Office to Protect Tenants – Advocates for tenant rights, regulates rents, and promotes fair and sustainable housing policies.
