Editor’s note: Randy Mastro is back ‘to answer the call’

Randy Mastro was all smiles last week. The former federal prosecutor and deputy mayor under then- New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was grilled for hours by the City Council when he was nominated to be the city’s corporation counsel, prompting him to pull his application. He was given another chance to come back to City Hall, this time as first deputy mayor, which is not subject to City Council approval. “I love this city and I want to see it succeed,” Mastro said in a text message to City & State. Mastro returns after not winning many favorites among the council because of his ties to Giuliani, track record as an attorney representing wealthy corporations and in controversial cases like New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s office in the Bridgegate scandal. Mastro got the message at his lengthy confirmation hearing for corporation counsel and withdrew his candidacy, and he wasn’t shy about his disappointment and feeling unfairly scrutinized.

Now, with the mayor needing to replace Maria Torres-Springer, who left alongside three other deputy mayors when Mayor Eric Adams appeared to be cooperating with the Trump administration to enforce its immigration policies at the same time his criminal indictment was potentially going to be dropped, Mastro found his way in. “There is dignity in public service. It’s a calling. And now, in particular, is the time to answer the call,” he said in his text. He seemed to reflect back on his rough ride getting there, adding, “Our politics have become so polarized. We have to find ways to work together and get things done for the good of all New Yorkers.” That was his “priority” and he said he will be “laser-like focused on doing that in the coming months.” It’s now time to deliver on that promise.