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During an inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “reinvent” New York City, ushering in “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious start to his administration.

A Historic Mayor

The new figure, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor of South Asian descent. He also made history by being the inaugural to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A moment like this is rare and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani remarked.

Defying suggestions to lower expectations, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to change is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will govern boldly and broadly.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Convictions

Mamdani openly embraced his political ideology. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my principles for fear of being called radical,” he said to an enthusiastic response.

The inauguration was a two-part event, starting with a late-night 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 election as a victory over powerful interests.

A Costly Platform

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

• Universal childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A halt to rent increases for about 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion cost of these programs may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has vowed to increase levies for the richest residents and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Challenges

The new mayor also faces skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past criticisms regarding Israel. Tensions were revealed during the transition when a senior aide resigned over offensive past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to smooth over 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 called Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a prior meeting between the two was reportedly unexpectedly friendly.

The Basic Tests of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their success in delivering city upkeep: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, fixing potholes, and ensuring smooth subway operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his team'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 historic mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a unusual piece of advice about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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