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On his inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “transform” New York City, promising “a different age” and an ambitious beginning to his tenure.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first mayor born in Africa. He additionally marked a milestone by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind is rare and rarer still is it that the public whose grasp the controls for transformation,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring advice to be modest, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will govern expansively and audaciously.”

Governing with Socialist Ideals

Mamdani openly embraced his political ideology. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my convictions for fear of being called radical,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The ceremony was a dual event, beginning with a late-night oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's rise as a victory over political establishments.

A Sweeping Blueprint

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

• Subsidized daycare
• No-cost bus transit
• A halt to rent increases for nearly 1 million households
• A trial program of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion expense of these services may be challenging to finance. Mamdani has pledged to increase levies for the richest residents and corporations. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Dynamics

The new mayor must contend with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past criticisms regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over offensive past tweets.

Mamdani has moved to ease these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, avoiding the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has labeled Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was described as unexpectedly productive.

The Basic Tests of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their ability in providing city upkeep: sanitation, reducing the rat infestation, fixing roadways, and making sure smooth subway operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his team's anti-crime efforts, pointing to record low numbers of homicides and gun violence in 2025, with 301 homicides recorded.

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual warning about a supposed friendly ghost in the home, which reportedly only troubles those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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