Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Lynch announced that he will not seek reelection when his current term expires this June.  

The announcement was made via email sent to New York City PBA members on Tuesday. It comes less than a week after the PBA’s announcement of an eight-year contract agreement with the city providing a 28.25% pay raise and improved working schedules. The agreement is pending ratification from members of the PBA.   

Lynch says that the expiration of that agreement in 2025 would put the union in the midst of new contract talks when he reaches his mandatory NYPD retirement in 2026 – something he wants to avoid.  

“This decision is part of a philosophy I have long held: a rider cannot switch horses in the middle of a battle, and the PBA must not change leadership in the middle of a contract fight,” said Lynch in his message to members of the PBA.”To remain true to my principles, I must allow the change to begin now.” 

Lynch is the longest-serving PBA president, and currently is the longest-tenured leader of any of the city’s municipal labor unions. He has served six terms since being elected to the position in 1999.  

The new president’s term will begin July 1.