Archive · 28 Dec 2025
Elon Musk Criticizes NYC Fire Commissioner Pick
Elon Musk recently criticized the choice of Lillian Bonsignore as the next commissioner of the Fire Department of New York City (FDNY).
He said that because she has never fought fires, people might die.
Bonsignore has worked for 31 years as an emergency medical technician (EMT) but has no firefighting experience.
She will be the second woman and the first openly gay person to lead the FDNY.
Some people on social media agreed with Musk, saying the appointment is not a good idea.
Others, like former FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, supported the choice, saying Bonsignore's EMS experience is important because most FDNY calls are for medical help.
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani defended the appointment, saying that EMS workers handle most of the FDNY's calls.
Bonsignore will start her new job on January 1.
Elon Musk criticized the appointment of Lillian Bonsignore as the next FDNY commissioner due to her lack of firefighting experience.
Bonsignore served 31 years as an EMT and will be the second woman and first openly gay FDNY commissioner.
Supporters highlight her EMS experience, noting that most FDNY calls are medical emergencies.
Musk's post received significant attention on social media, with over 25 million views and 184,000 likes.
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani defended the appointment, emphasizing the importance of EMS experience in the FDNY.
- Who
- Elon Musk, Lillian Bonsignore, Zohran Mamdani, NYC Mayor Eric Adams
- What
- Elon Musk criticizes the appointment of Lillian Bonsignore as the next FDNY commissioner due to her lack of firefighting experience.
- When
- The appointment was announced recently, with Bonsignore assuming the role on January 1.
- Where
- New York City, USA
- Why
- Musk believes that the lack of firefighting experience could lead to deadly consequences, while supporters argue that her EMS experience is valuable.
Critics
Supporters
Experience
Critics
Critics argue that Lillian Bonsignore lacks firefighting experience, which is crucial for the role of FDNY commissioner.
Supporters
Supporters highlight her 31 years of EMS experience and note that most FDNY calls are EMS-related.
Appointment Validity
Critics
Critics question the appointment, suggesting it is more about diversity than qualifications.
Supporters
Supporters defend the appointment, emphasizing the importance of diverse leadership and operational experience in EMS.
- Appointee
- Lillian Bonsignore
- Experience
- 31 years as an EMT, no firefighting experience
- Mayor-elect
- Zohran Mamdani
- Assumption of Role
- January 1, after Mamdani is sworn in
- Current FDNY Commissioner
- Mark Guerra (interim)
- Previous FDNY Commissioner
- Laura Kavanagh (no firefighting experience)
- Social Media Reaction
- Elon Musk's post received 25 million views and 184,000 likes
