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During an initial day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani committed to “reinvent” the metropolis, ushering in “a fresh chapter” and an bold commencement to his tenure.

A Groundbreaking Leader

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

“A moment like this seldom arrives and even more uncommon is it that the public whose hold the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Ignoring suggestions to be modest, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to change is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will lead boldly and broadly.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Ideals

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my ideals for concern of being called radical,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a two-part event, starting 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 rise as a victory over political establishments.

A Sweeping Platform

Mamdani now undertakes one of the most challenging jobs in American politics, with a agenda including:

• Subsidized daycare
• No-cost bus transit
• A halt to rent increases for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion expense of these services may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Headwinds

The new mayor must contend with skepticism from some members of the Jewish community concerned about his past criticisms regarding Israel. Tensions were revealed during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has moved to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “communist” and threatened withholding government money. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was reportedly unexpectedly friendly.

The Core Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their ability in providing essential functions: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, fixing roadways, and ensuring reliable subway operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his team's public safety record, citing historically low numbers of murders and gun violence in 2025, with 301 homicides reported.

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a quirky piece of advice about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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