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On his inauguration day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” America's largest city, promising “a different age” and an ambitious beginning to his term.

An Unprecedented Leader

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

“A time such as this is rare and rarer still is it that the citizens whose hold the levers of change,” Mamdani stated.

Defying counsel to lower expectations, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will rule boldly and broadly.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Ideals

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his core beliefs. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not forsake my principles for worry of being called radical,” he proclaimed to rapturous applause.

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

A Costly Policy Agenda

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

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

The estimated $10 billion expense of these services may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has pledged to tax more heavily the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Challenges

The new mayor must contend with concern from some members of the Jewish community concerned about his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over offensive past social media posts.

Mamdani has attempted to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, 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 federal funding. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was reportedly unexpectedly friendly.

The Core Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in delivering essential functions: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, repairing potholes, and making sure smooth subway 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 301 homicides reported.

As his administration begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a quirky piece of advice about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which reportedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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