New York City Mayor Adams announced a major budget proposal as his term is about to end, aiming to increase the size of the New York Police Department (NYPD) to 40,000 officers by 2029, the highest level in twenty years. This move is widely seen as his parting “political move,” aiming to boost the campaign of former Governor Cuomo, whom he supports, while putting pressure on the leading Democratic Socialist candidate, Mandani.
According to the budget proposal released by Adams’ office, the city government will gradually expand the police force starting from the 2026 fiscal year, in phased increments of 5,000 officers, to reach a total of 40,000 officers by 2029. This would be the peak level of NYPD staffing since 2000.
Adams stated that the city will increase the police budget by $17.8 million in the next fiscal year and gradually raise it to $315.8 million by 2029 to support the expansion of the police force, training, and new recruitments.
However, this budget proposal still needs to be reviewed and approved by the City Council next summer, led by progressive Democratic Party members. It is widely believed that the council is unlikely to give Adams a parting gift before he leaves office, and they are not willing to antagonize Mandani, who is likely to take office.
Former NYPD Commissioner Bratton criticized Adams’ plan as “too little, too late,” stating that the council is unlikely to approve it, and that the proposal is merely a “farewell gesture” and a “political posture.”
On the other hand, Democratic political consultant and long-time police union advisor, Ken Frydman, gave a more positive evaluation, considering Adams’ move as an “investment in his public safety legacy” and a proactive measure to prevent future reductions in police funding under a Mandani administration.
Mayoral candidate Mandani, who previously advocated for “defunding the police,” has softened his stance in recent months. He now says that if elected, he will maintain the current size of the police force instead of expanding it.
In response to Adams’ proposal, Mandani argued that the issue is not about numbers but about safety. He reiterated his plan to establish a “Department of Community Safety” with a budget of around $1.1 billion to specifically handle mental health and social intervention cases, ensuring that non-violent incidents are no longer dealt with by police. Additionally, if elected, he plans to retain current NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch to ensure continuity in public safety.
NYPD Commissioner Tisch publicly supported Adams’ plan to expand the police force, stating that “every new officer represents a safer neighborhood.” She thanked Adams for prioritizing public safety and believes that this investment will help the NYPD maintain its record low in shooting incidents and victim numbers, allowing the police to continue recruiting, training, and deploying a new generation of officers to solidify the city’s achievements in public safety.
According to police data, this year alone, 2,800 officers have resigned or retired, almost offsetting the 2,900 new officers hired in the summer. The President of the NYC Police Benevolent Association (NYCPBA), Patrick Hendry, warned that increasing numbers is easy, but retaining talent is difficult. The key factors are salary, benefits, and quality of work-life.
With only a few days left until the mayoral election on November 4th, police force and public safety have become a focal point of the campaign. Both Cuomo and Republican mayoral candidate Sliwa have criticized Mandani’s policies, while Mandani believes that his approach “balances safety and justice.”
Mayor Adams emphasized, “The last thing I do before leaving office is to ensure that the foundation of public safety in New York City remains solid.”