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On his inauguration day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” New York City, ushering in “a different age” and an audacious commencement to his term.

A Historic Leader

The young democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

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

Ignoring advice to be modest, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will lead with courage and vision.”

Steering by Democratic Socialist Principles

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 compromise my convictions for worry of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to rapturous applause.

The ceremony was a dual event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the front steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's ascent as a victory over powerful interests.

A Sweeping Blueprint

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

• Subsidized daycare
• Fare-free public buses
• A cap on rents for approximately 1 million households
• A trial program of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion price tag of these initiatives may be challenging to finance. Mamdani has pledged to increase levies for the richest residents and big business. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Managing Political Challenges

The new mayor also faces apprehension from some members of the Jewish community alarmed by his past criticisms regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to smooth over these concerns by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

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

The Fundamental Challenges of Leadership

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing city upkeep: sanitation, reducing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and making sure reliable subway service.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his team's public safety record, citing record low numbers of murders and shootings in 2025, with murders reported.

As his term begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a unusual piece of advice about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which reportedly only haunts those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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