New York Declares War on Rats and Appoints a Woman to Lead the Battle

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced today, Wednesday, the appointment of former Department of Education employee Kathleen Coradi as the first official with extensive powers to combat rats in the city, as part of his efforts to address the increasing rodent population. The city's rodent control director, Coradi, said at a press conference: "You will see a lot from me and you will see a lot fewer rats... Someone has come to change the situation." Adams posted a job announcement last year, stating: "Somewhat bloodthirsty," surrounded by "an aura of public toughness" and offering an annual salary ranging from $120,000 to $170,000. Data from New York City indicates that rat sightings have increased in recent years. Some officials say that the rise in outdoor dining due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in restaurants closing, has exacerbated the problem.