Lina Khan Appointed Chair of NYC Economic Development Corp.

WHO:

Deadline - Lina Khan, antitrust crusader and former head of the Federal Trade Commission, has been named chair of the New York City Economic Development Corporation by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

WHAT:

Deadline - Khan's appointment as chair is described as a surprise and indicates a leftward shift in the government of New York City.

Gothamist - As board chair, Khan will scrutinize the Economic Development Corporation, which has faced criticism for being too cozy with business interests.

WHERE:

Deadline - New York City Economic Development Corporation, New York City.

WHY:

Gothamist - The appointment reflects a shift in government priorities under Mayor Mamdani's administration.

(UPDATED July 22, 2026 18:22 UTC)

Lina Khan, known for her antitrust advocacy and her previous role as head of the Federal Trade Commission, has been appointed chair of the New York City Economic Development Corporation by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a move that has taken many by surprise. This appointment signals a leftward shift in the city's government and comes as Khan is expected to closely examine the Economic Development Corporation, which has been criticized for its close ties to business interests. The change reflects a broader shift in government priorities under Mayor Mamdani's administration.