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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “transform” America's largest city, declaring “a new era” and an bold start to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Figure

The new democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, is the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the inaugural to be sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A time such as this comes rarely and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose hands are upon the levers of change,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring suggestions to lower expectations, 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 with courage and vision.”

Steering by Socialist Principles

Mamdani did not shy away from his political ideology. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my convictions for concern of being called radical,” he proclaimed to an enthusiastic response.

The inauguration was a two-part event, beginning with a late-night oath-taking in a old subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's rise as a victory over the status quo.

A Costly Platform

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

• Subsidized daycare
• Fare-free public buses
• A cap on rents for approximately 1 million households
• A experiment of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion expense of these programs may prove difficult to secure. Mamdani has vowed to raise taxes on 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.

Facing Political Challenges

The new mayor will deal with skepticism from some members of the Jewish community concerned about his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide resigned over offensive past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the optics of losing a top Jewish official.

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

The Core Challenges of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in delivering basic services: trash collection, curbing the rat infestation, fixing roadways, and ensuring smooth transit service.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his team's public safety record, citing historically low numbers of murders and gun violence in 2025, with murders recorded.

As his term starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Queens apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual 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 ended his speech with a direct declaration: “The work has only just begun.”