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During an inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “reimagine” New York City, ushering in “a different age” and an bold beginning to his term.

A Groundbreaking Figure

The young 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 first to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind seldom arrives and even more uncommon is it that the public whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Defying advice to be modest, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will lead expansively and audaciously.”

Governing with Socialist Ideals

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

The swearing-in was a dual event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the front steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's rise as a victory over the status quo.

A Sweeping Platform

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

• Free childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A rent freeze for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion price tag of these services may pose a hurdle to finance. Mamdani has pledged to tax more heavily the wealthiest New Yorkers and big business. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing Political Dynamics

The new mayor must contend with concern 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 controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has attempted 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 labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as unexpectedly cordial.

The Basic Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their ability in providing essential functions: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and making sure reliable transit service.

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

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual piece of advice about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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