January 1, Teen Cancer Survivor Takes NYC Safety Honor

Wyatt’s Take

• Thirteen-year-old DJ Daniel sworn in as honorary deputy mayor for public safety in New York City.
• Daniel, a cancer survivor, earns acclaim nationwide for his courage and commitment to law enforcement.
• City leaders use the moment to highlight the qualities Americans respect: grit, family, and service.

DJ Daniel, a 13-year-old cancer survivor, became New York City’s honorary deputy mayor for public safety on Tuesday. Daniel, recognized by his law enforcement accomplishments, was previously recognized by President Trump at a joint address to Congress.

“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my daddy,” Daniel said Tuesday.

“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.”

Mayor Eric Adams held a ceremony for Daniel and made light of recent investigations in city leadership by letting Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry “step aside” for the occasion.

Daniel has set a world record for being sworn into over 1,350 law enforcement agencies across America, including an earlier role as New York City’s police commissioner.

Theodis Daniel, DJ’s father, recently announced a campaign for Texas’ 18th congressional district, showing the family’s active involvement in public service.

Speaking about DJ, Mayor Adams stated, “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.”

After the swearing-in, Daniel received a “Deputy Mayor DJ” uniform and a proclamation at City Hall.

Daniel, who was diagnosed with brain and spinal cancer at age six, said earlier this month,

“DJ initially had five months to live, and we’ve beaten that,”

His story inspires law enforcement and regular folks across the country. President Trump called him “a young man who truly loves our police” when naming him an honorary Secret Service agent during the earlier congressional address.

Americans are drawn to Daniel’s determination, his family’s sacrifice, and the public support he continues to receive.

Celebrating folks like DJ Daniel reminds us what America’s made of—hard work, family backing, and never giving up, no matter the odds.

Wyatt Matters

This story is an example of facing hardship head-on and the power of community. When neighbors support each other and rally behind people who refuse to quit, the heart of Middle America beats strong.

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