New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch used humor to address recent criticism at the annual Al Smith Dinner in New York City on Thursday night, a high-profile event hosted by the Archdiocese of New York. Tisch, who received the Happy Warrior Award during the ceremony, made light of calls from some local political figures and activists demanding her removal as the city’s top law enforcement official.

Addressing an audience that included Mayor Antoine Mamdani, Tisch joked about reports suggesting that the mayor’s associates were unhappy with her performance. “There’s a lot of talk these days that the mayor’s friends don’t like me,” she quipped before adding with a smile, “That’s simply not true — President Trump and I get along great!” She then briefly acknowledged the mounting pressure she faced in recent days, humorously inviting the room to consider hiring her if she were to leave her post.

Tisch, 45, a third-generation member of the Loews Corporation family, referenced a private comment from Mamdani in which he had reassured her that she would retain her position despite their political differences. She recounted Mamdani telling her last year, “Jessie, I ran on taxing the rich. You’re going to need a job.”

At the event, Tisch reflected on the unique circumstances of her role, noting the religious and political diversity represented in city leadership. "This dinner is an opportunity to set aside our religious and political differences," she said. "Which is wonderful, because I’m a Jewish police commissioner working for a Muslim mayor, and tonight I’m being honored by the Catholic Church."

Archbishop Ronald Hicks, overseeing his first Al Smith Dinner, praised Tisch’s dedication and family legacy of public service in presenting her with the award. His predecessor, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who also attended, lauded Tisch’s leadership and referred to her as “Wonder Woman.” Lynda Carter, the original “Wonder Woman” actress from the 1970s television series, was among attendees, though Mayor Mamdani did not appear or address the gathering and his office declined immediate comment on Tisch’s remarks.

The controversy surrounding Tisch intensified following the NYPD’s handling of demonstrations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after federal agents fatally shot Oscar Belgal, an undocumented immigrant and suspected gang member, on October 8 in the Marble Hill neighborhood of The Bronx. Critics, including allies of Mayor Mamdani such as soon-to-be U.S. Representative Darializa Avila Chevalier, have called for Tisch’s resignation or removal. They have also advocated dismantling the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group, accusing the department of violating the city’s sanctuary policies by allegedly assisting ICE — accusations that Tisch and department officials have rejected.

The Al Smith Dinner provided a rare venue for civic leaders to pause partisan tensions while acknowledging public service, even as debate over law enforcement priorities continues to unfold across New York City.