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Randy Mastro named first deputy mayor after failed bid to be NYC’s top lawyer
By
Elizabeth Kim
Published Mar 20, 2025
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Caroline Willis / Mayoral Photo Office
By
Elizabeth Kim
Published Mar 20, 2025
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Randy Mastro, a former top aide to Mayor Rudy Giuliani who became known as an aggressive attorney with a list of controversial clients, has been appointed Mayor Eric Adams’ first deputy mayor, officials announced on Thursday.
The appointment fills a critical vacancy as Adams seeks a second term. But it could also spark a showdown with the City Council and Speaker Adrienne Adams, who fiercely opposed Mastro when Adams previously nominated him to be the city’s top lawyer. The first deputy mayor traditionally plays a crucial role in budget negotiations with the Council.
“Randy is a storied and impressive New Yorker with a track record of success in the face of some of the city and nation’s most challenging times,” Adams said in a statement.
The mayor said he looked forward to working “side by side” with Mastro to make “New York City a safer, more affordable city that is the best place to raise a family.”
In a statement, Mastro thanked Adams for appointing him.
“I believe now, in particular, is a time to heed the call to public service, and I am excited to answer the call,” he said.
Mastro replaces First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer, who left City Hall last week after announcing her resignation along with three other deputy mayors amid concerns that Adams was beholden to the Trump administration.
Adams is still awaiting a ruling from a judge on whether his corruption charges will be dropped. The Justice Department ordered prosecutors to dismiss the case so that the mayor can help President Trump carry out his immigration policies.
Being first deputy mayor – a role seen as second in command after the mayor – was not Mastro’s first choice. In September, he withdrew his nomination as the city’s top lawyer after it became clear the City Council was poised to reject him.
Many Council members objected to Mastro’s list of conservative clients, arguing that they clashed with the city’s policies. Most recently, Mastro represented New Jersey in its unsuccessful lawsuit to overturn congestion pricing.
Earlier this month, the mayor named four new deputy mayors, putting to rest concerns that he would be unable to recruit people to join his administration.
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Politics
Elizabeth Kim
Elizabeth Kim is a reporter on the People and Power desk who covers mayoral power. She previously covered the pandemic, housing, redevelopment and public spaces. A native of Queens, she speaks fluent Mandarin. Got a tip? Email [email protected]
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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