Houston, Texas : The Houston Police Officers’ Union is openly inviting New York City police officers to join the Houston Police Department, following the election of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City.
In a social media post published this week, the union asked, “NYPD, are you disgusted with the election of Zohran Mamdani? Join us!” The message promotes Houston as a more supportive environment for law enforcement, citing higher pay and strong city leadership.
Union cites pay raise and political support
The post highlights a 36.5 percent pay raise over five years recently approved for Houston officers, a “supportive mayor and city council,” and a police chief described as “a retired Texas Ranger, not a politician.”
According to the new contract approved earlier this year, base pay for Houston officers will increase from about $62,000 to $75,000 for first-year officers. The deal also includes a $5,000 completion bonus for new recruits and raises cadet pay from $42,000 to $52,000.
Union leaders say Houston offers a “law-enforcement friendly” culture and affordable cost of living — factors they hope will attract experienced officers from out of state.
Reaction to Mamdani’s election
Mamdani, 34, a former state assembly member from Queens, ran on a progressive platform emphasizing housing affordability, transparency, and policing reform. His victory has drawn mixed reactions from law-enforcement groups in New York, with some officers expressing concern about his approach to police oversight.
The Houston union’s outreach appears aimed at those officers, contrasting Houston’s approach with what the group views as uncertainty under New York’s new administration.
Recruiting competition among U.S. departments
Police departments nationwide are increasingly competing for personnel as agencies struggle with staffing shortages. Houston’s campaign reflects a broader trend of departments offering relocation incentives and highlighting political support for law enforcement.
It remains unclear whether the Houston Police Department will see a measurable influx of NYPD officers. However, the public invitation has already generated national attention — and stirred debate about politics, policing, and pay across state lines.
