Who is Lina Khan - the Pakistani-American chosen by Zohran Mamdani to run New York City

Who is Lina Khan - the Pakistani-American chosen by Zohran Mamdani to run New York City

New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani (right) and former Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan. – Reuters

November, 9 2025

NEW YORK (Web Desk): Lina Maliha Khan, a Pakistani-American legal scholar and former US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) chairperson, has been appointed by New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani to co-chair his transition team, marking another milestone in her groundbreaking career.

Khan, 36, rose to national prominence as the youngest-ever FTC chairperson during President Joe Biden’s administration. Known for her fearless fight against corporate monopolies and unfair business practices, she will now play a key role in guiding America’s largest city into a new era.

Zohran Mamdani, 34, the first Muslim and South Asian elected as New York City’s mayor, will take office on January 1, 2026, managing a budget worth Rs31,472,000,000,000 ($116 billion). His decision to bring Khan on board signals a commitment to reform, diversity, and bold policymaking.

In her statement, Khan said, “New Yorkers sent a clear message this week that it’s time to build a city that working people can actually afford. I’m excited to help Zohran build a team that will usher in a new era for New York City and set a new model for Democratic governance.”

During her time at the FTC, Khan was known for taking on powerful corporations such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Ticketmaster. She worked to curb monopolistic control and eliminate “junk fees,” winning praise from both Democrats and Republicans, including J D Vance and Steve Bannon.

While her strong stance against Big Tech earned her admiration from progressives, it also drew criticism from Silicon Valley leaders who opposed tighter regulation. Still, Khan stood firm, becoming one of Washington’s most influential voices on corporate accountability.

Born in London to Pakistani parents, Khan immigrated to the United States in 2000. She is married to Dr Shah Rukh Ali, a cardiologist at Columbia University, and continues to inspire many with her rise from immigrant roots to one of the most powerful positions in US policymaking.

Lina Khan’s appointment highlights her growing influence beyond Washington. Her record of challenging corporate giants may now shape how New York addresses inequality, affordability, and fair governance. By joining forces with Zohran Mamdani, Khan is not only making history — she may also redefine the future of American city leadership.