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On his inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “reimagine” New York City, ushering in “a different age” and an audacious start to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The 34-year-old political star, 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 take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A time such as this comes rarely and even more uncommon is it that the public whose grasp the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Ignoring suggestions to temper hopes, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of limited ambitions. Beginning today we will rule with courage and vision.”

Steering by Socialist Principles

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

The swearing-in was a dual event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's rise as a victory over political establishments.

A Sweeping Platform

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

• Universal childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A cap on rents for approximately 1 million households
• A trial program of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion price tag of these programs may prove difficult to secure. Mamdani has vowed to raise taxes on 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 Headwinds

The new mayor will deal with apprehension from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past criticisms regarding Israel. Tensions were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director resigned over offensive past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to smooth over these tensions 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 “communist” and threatened withholding federal funding. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was described as surprisingly friendly.

The Core Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in delivering essential functions: sanitation, reducing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and making sure reliable transit service.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's public safety record, pointing to record low numbers of homicides and gun violence in 2025, with 301 homicides recorded.

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Queens apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a quirky piece of advice about a supposed 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 declaration: “The work has only just begun.”