Thirteen-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a cancer survivor whose story has inspired leaders nationwide, was officially sworn in on Tuesday as New York City’s honorary deputy mayor for public safety.
The teen, already recognized by more than 1,350 law enforcement agencies across the country, added yet another title to his growing résumé during a ceremony at City Hall. Mayor Eric Adams, joined by Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry, led the symbolic handover.
“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my daddy,” Daniel said, crediting his father, Theodis, who has supported him through years of health struggles and countless ceremonies. “My dad’s been driving me everywhere. No matter how tired he is, he still gets the job done. And out in Texas, we don’t say we get it done, we get ‘er done, like my dad says.”
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Adams lightheartedly teased the event by suggesting that Daughtry would “step aside” from his position. Against the backdrop of new indictments involving the mayor’s associates, the announcement briefly sparked speculation. But the handover was all in fun.
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“I will be stepping down just for a small bit today, and DJ Daniel will be taking my place as the honorary deputy mayor for public safety,” Daughtry joked, calling it the “breaking news today.”
Before administering the oath, Adams praised Daniel’s courage and resilience, describing him as the kind of leader the city values. “When it comes to choosing people to serve in the critical role, we are looking for courage, commitment and experience. And you see all these stars, the silver, the diamonds. He has the experience that we need. He’s battle-tested. He’s a battle-tested leader with a strong record of public service, and we are proud to swear him in,” Adams said.
Daniel, who was diagnosed with terminal brain and spinal cancer at age six, continues to defy the odds. His father recently revealed to Fox News, “DJ initially had five months to live, and we’ve beaten that.”
The teen first gained national attention when President Donald Trump honored him during a joint address to Congress earlier this year, introducing him as “a young man who truly loves our police” while granting him the title of honorary Secret Service agent to a standing ovation.
Since then, DJ has been named an honorary police officer, sheriff’s deputy, and even New York City police commissioner. Tuesday’s ceremony also included a proclamation, a custom “Deputy Mayor DJ” uniform, and a celebratory trip to the Empire State Building.
