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In a inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” the metropolis, declaring “a different age” and an bold start to his administration.

A Historic Figure

The new political star, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, is 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 Qur'an.

“A moment like this comes rarely and rarer still is it that the citizens whose hands are upon the controls for transformation,” Mamdani stated.

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

Adhering to Socialist Ideals

Mamdani did not shy away from his socialist politics. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not forsake my ideals for concern of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The inauguration was a two-part event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's rise as a victory over powerful interests.

A Sweeping Policy Agenda

Mamdani now faces one of the most unrelenting jobs in American politics, with a platform including:

• Subsidized daycare
• Fare-free public buses
• A cap on rents for nearly 1 million households
• A trial program of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion expense of these initiatives may prove difficult to finance. Mamdani has vowed to tax more heavily the city's top earners and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Headwinds

The new mayor also faces apprehension from some members of the Jewish community concerned about his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over offensive past comments.

Mamdani has attempted to ease these tensions by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing the optics of losing a Jewish police chief.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and threatened withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was described as surprisingly cordial.

The Core Tests of Leadership

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in providing basic services: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, repairing potholes, and ensuring smooth subway service.

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

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the stately mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a unusual piece of advice about a supposed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

Mamdani ended his speech with a direct declaration: “The work has only just begun.”