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On his inauguration day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” New York City, promising “a new era” and an audacious beginning to his term.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The new democratic socialist, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A opportunity of this kind comes rarely and even more uncommon is it that the people themselves whose grasp the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani remarked.

Rejecting suggestions to lower expectations, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will lead with courage and vision.”

Governing with Democratic Socialist Ideals

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

The swearing-in was a two-part event, beginning with a midnight 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 praised Mamdani's election as a victory over political establishments.

A Sweeping Blueprint

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

• Subsidized daycare
• No-cost bus transit
• A cap on rents for approximately 1 million households
• A experiment of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion price tag of these programs may be challenging to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the city's top earners and big business. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Challenges

The new mayor will deal with apprehension from some members of the Jewish community alarmed by his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has sought to smooth over these tensions by persuading 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 “communist” and warned of withholding federal funding. Despite this, a prior meeting between the two was reportedly surprisingly productive.

The Core Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in delivering city upkeep: sanitation, curbing the rat infestation, repairing roadways, and making sure smooth subway service.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's public safety record, pointing to record low numbers of homicides and gun violence in 2025, with 301 homicides reported.

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a unusual piece of advice about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly 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.”