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In a inauguration day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “transform” the metropolis, declaring “a fresh chapter” and an bold start to his tenure.

An Unprecedented Figure

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, has become the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A moment like this comes rarely and rarer still is it that the public whose hold the controls for transformation,” Mamdani added.

Defying advice to lower expectations, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will govern with courage and vision.”

Adhering to 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 forsake my ideals for worry of being called radical,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a dual event, beginning with a midnight 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 ascent as a victory over political establishments.

An Ambitious Policy Agenda

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

• Subsidized daycare
• No-cost bus transit
• A rent freeze for nearly 1 million households
• A experiment of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion price tag of these initiatives may be challenging to fund. Mamdani has pledged 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.

Facing External Headwinds

The new mayor will deal with apprehension from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past comments regarding Israel. Tensions were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over offensive past comments.

Mamdani has attempted to address these tensions by convincing 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 labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and threatened withholding federal funding. Despite this, a recent encounter between the two was described as surprisingly cordial.

The Basic Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in delivering essential functions: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, fixing roadways, and ensuring reliable transit service.

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

As his term begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a unusual warning about a supposed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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