Elon Musk expressed concerns regarding the appointment of Lillian Bonsignore as the next commissioner of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) by Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Musk warned that Bonsignore's lack of operational firefighting experience could lead to dangerous outcomes, stating, "People will die because of this." Bonsignore, who retired in 2022 after 31 years as an emergency medical technician, will be the second woman to lead the FDNY and the first openly gay commissioner in the department's history.

The appointment has received support from the three unions representing city firefighters, FDNY officers, and medics. Critics of Musk's stance noted that the previous two FDNY commissioners appointed by Mayor Eric Adams also lacked direct firefighting experience. Supporters of Bonsignore, including former FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, emphasized her extensive EMS experience, arguing that the majority of calls handled by firefighters are related to emergency medical services.

Bonsignore is set to assume her role following Mamdani's swearing-in on January 1. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams announced a separate appointment for an interim fire commissioner to serve during the final days of his administration. The discussions surrounding this appointment reflect ongoing debates about qualifications and experience in leadership roles within public safety agencies.