On his inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, declaring “a fresh chapter” and an audacious beginning to his term.
The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.
“A moment like this comes rarely and even more uncommon is it that the citizens whose grasp the controls for transformation,” Mamdani stated.
Ignoring advice to be modest, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will lead expansively and audaciously.”
Mamdani openly embraced his political ideology. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my ideals for worry of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to an enthusiastic response.
The inauguration was a dual event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the front steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's election as a victory over powerful interests.
Mamdani now faces one of the most demanding jobs in American politics, with a plan promising:
The projected $10 billion cost of these services may be challenging to fund. Mamdani has vowed to tax more heavily the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.
The new mayor will deal with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over offensive past comments.
Mamdani has sought to ease these concerns by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing 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 federal funding. Despite this, a prior meeting between the two was reportedly surprisingly productive.
In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing city upkeep: sanitation, reducing the rodent problem, fixing potholes, and ensuring reliable transit service.
Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his administration's public safety record, pointing to historically low numbers of murders and gun violence in 2025, with murders recorded.
As his term begins, 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 friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who do not act to “do right by the city.”
Mamdani concluded his speech with a direct declaration: “The work has only just begun.”
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