BREAKING: Mayor Shahid Mamdani is shaking up New York City Hall by appointing former aides from Bernie Sanders’ 2020 presidential campaign to key communications positions. In a strategic move just announced, Anna Bahr will take on the role of communications director, while Joe Calvello steps in as press secretary. This development marks a significant alignment with the national progressive movement.
Bahr, who confirmed her appointment to the Daily News late Monday, has a robust background in progressive politics. She previously served as communications director in Sanders’ Senate office since 2024 and was instrumental in launching Left Flank Strategies, a political consulting firm. “Mayor Mamdani is modeling a different kind of government—one that champions the needs of working people,” Bahr stated. “New Yorkers deserve this change, and I’m proud to be part of this team.”
Calvello, another key hire, previously advised Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman and resigned from his position in 2024 after Fetterman’s shift towards more moderate policies. His experience brings a fresh perspective as Mamdani’s chief spokesperson.
These appointments, first reported by the New York Times and scheduled for official announcement on Tuesday, reflect a shared ideological vision between Mamdani and Sanders, both identifying as democratic socialists. In a notable moment, Sanders himself swore in Mamdani during his public inauguration last week.
Bahr will oversee the entire communications strategy for the Mamdani administration, while Calvello will manage media relations from City Hall. Although neither has prior experience in New York City government, both have held senior roles in other major cities. Bahr’s extensive experience in progressive communication and Calvello’s strategic insight are expected to bring a transformative approach to City Hall.
The urgency of these appointments cannot be overstated. As Mamdani positions his administration to address the needs of working-class New Yorkers, the influence of Sanders’ campaign veterans signals a commitment to progressive ideals that resonate deeply within the community.
Watch for the official announcement on Tuesday as Mamdani continues to reshape leadership at City Hall, prioritizing communication strategies that reflect his administration’s core values.