TL;DR
Lina Khan actively collaborates with Zohran Mamdani on shared policy goals, particularly concerning economic regulation.
Key Points
She was named a transition co-chair alongside Mamdani for a New York City administration role.
Khan and Mamdani jointly addressed issues concerning affordability in New York City in late 2025.
The partnership has been noted by critics as an example of her willingness to forge unusual policy alliances.
Summary
Lina Khan actively collaborates with Zohran Mamdani, suggesting a shared ideological alignment on certain regulatory and economic fronts, evidenced by their joint public appearances and transition team work. The Federal Trade Commission Chair has publicly associated with Mamdani, even joining him for events, indicating a willingness to form coalitions outside traditional political spheres to advance shared objectives, such as those related to economic fairness and affordability in New York City. This partnership underscores a pragmatic approach to governance.
This alignment has drawn attention from various advocacy groups who view their association as a potential pathway to further progressive regulatory action. Specifically, their joint engagement in transition efforts has been highlighted as a key moment demonstrating this collaboration. The involvement signals a mutual interest in shaping policy outcomes, even if their primary roles—one as a federal regulator and the other as a local policymaker—differ in scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lina Khan views Zohran Mamdani as a collaborative partner on shared economic and regulatory objectives. She has worked alongside him in formal capacities, such as on a transition team, suggesting a positive working relationship.
There is no indication that Lina Khan has reversed her stance on Zohran Mamdani, as their publicly known collaboration appears consistent throughout the reporting period. Their association seems based on mutual policy interests.
Lina Khan has publicly engaged with Zohran Mamdani at events, including joint appearances discussing local economic concerns like affordability. Her actions suggest she values the collaboration formed through these shared efforts.
Sources8
Lina Khan and Zohran Mamdani on Affordability in New York City
How Lina Khan Is Busy Striving to Maximize Mamdani’s Power
Lina Khan Joins Hands with Zohran Mamdani: The FTC Should Rid Its Hands of Her
Mamdani, Lina Khan on Transition Team and Private Equity
My transition co-chair Lina Khan and First Deputy Mayor Dean Fuleihan joined sta...
Khan on Finding Strange Coalitions at the FTC
Lina Khan on Zohran Mamdani and Common Dreams
The Nation Archive
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.