Lina Khan's New NYC Role Draws Scrutiny From Business Leaders
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed former FTC Chair Lina Khan to lead the NYC Economic Development Corporation, a move drawing attention from the business community.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani has selected Lina Khan, formerly the chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to chair the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). The NYCEDC plays a crucial role in guiding billions of dollars in development projects, public-private partnerships, and business investment initiatives across the city.
Mamdani also appointed veteran city official Anthony Shorris as the NYCEDC's CEO and president. Shorris previously served as first deputy mayor under Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Khan's appointment, despite her role on Mamdani's transition team, has surprised some. Her tenure at the FTC was marked by aggressive antitrust enforcement, which drew criticism from business groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, who labeled her approach as anti-business. Proponents, however, view her as pro-competition and anti-monopoly, citing actions such as blocking the Kroger-Albertsons merger and securing refunds for consumers from Epic Games.
The NYCEDC oversees a broad range of economic activities, including attracting new companies, mobilizing private investment, and managing key city infrastructure like the NYC Ferry System. Its primary focus is on spearheading new development projects within the city.