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On his first day in office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “transform” the metropolis, ushering in “a different age” and an bold commencement to his tenure.

A Groundbreaking Figure

The young political star, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is 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 opportunity of this kind is rare and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose grasp the controls for transformation,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring suggestions to temper hopes, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to change is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will govern expansively and audaciously.”

Steering by Democratic Socialist Principles

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his political ideology. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will lead as one. I will not abandon my principles for fear of being called radical,” he said to loud cheers.

The ceremony was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was officially inaugurated 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.

An Ambitious Blueprint

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

• Universal childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A halt to rent increases for about 1 million households
• A pilot of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these initiatives may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the city's top earners and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing Political Dynamics

The new mayor also faces skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has attempted to smooth over these concerns by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing the optics of losing a top Jewish official.

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

The Basic Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing basic services: sanitation, reducing the rodent problem, repairing potholes, and making sure reliable subway operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's anti-crime efforts, citing record low numbers of homicides and shootings in 2025, with murders recorded.

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a unusual warning about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which reportedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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