🔗 Share this article

On his inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” America's largest city, ushering in “a different age” and an audacious commencement to his term.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The new democratic socialist, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the inaugural to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A moment like this comes rarely and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose hands are upon the levers of change,” Mamdani stated.

Rejecting advice to lower expectations, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will govern boldly and broadly.”

Governing with Democratic Socialist Convictions

Mamdani did not shy away from his core beliefs. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my convictions for worry of being called radical,” he said to an enthusiastic response.

The ceremony was a two-part event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the front steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's ascent as a victory over the status quo.

A Costly Blueprint

Mamdani now begins one of the most challenging jobs in American politics, with a plan promising:

• Universal childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A halt to rent increases for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion price tag of these programs may be challenging to secure. Mamdani has vowed to tax more heavily the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Headwinds

The new mayor will deal with concern from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a appointments director resigned over offensive past tweets.

Mamdani has attempted to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the appearance of losing a Jewish police chief.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “socialist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was reportedly surprisingly productive.

The Fundamental Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in delivering city upkeep: sanitation, reducing the rodent problem, fixing potholes, and ensuring smooth subway operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his administration's public safety record, citing historically low numbers of homicides and shootings in 2025, with murders recorded.

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a quirky piece of advice about a supposed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

Mamdani concluded his address with a simple declaration: “The work has only just begun.”