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On his inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “reinvent” America's largest city, promising “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious beginning to his tenure.

An Unprecedented Mayor

The new democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, is the city's first mayor of South Asian descent. He additionally marked a milestone by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A time such as this seldom arrives and even more uncommon is it that the citizens whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

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

Adhering to Socialist Principles

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his political ideology. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not compromise my convictions for fear of being called radical,” he proclaimed to rapturous applause.

The swearing-in was a two-part event, beginning with a late-night oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's election as a victory over the status quo.

A Sweeping Blueprint

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

• Subsidized daycare
• Fare-free public buses
• A halt to rent increases for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of city-run grocery stores

The projected $10 billion cost of these programs may be challenging to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the richest residents and big business. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Headwinds

The new mayor also faces concern from some members of the Jewish community alarmed by his past stances regarding Israel. Tensions were revealed during the transition when a appointments director resigned over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has attempted to ease these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, preventing the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and threatened withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was reportedly surprisingly cordial.

The Basic Tests of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing city upkeep: sanitation, curbing the rodent problem, fixing potholes, and ensuring smooth transit service.

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

As his administration begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a quirky 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 remarks with a simple declaration: “The work has only just begun.”