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

A Historic Leader

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A moment like this seldom arrives and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose grasp the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

Rejecting counsel to temper hopes, 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 rule with courage and vision.”

Adhering to Socialist Convictions

Mamdani did not shy away from his socialist politics. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not forsake my convictions for worry of being called radical,” he said to rapturous applause.

The inauguration was a dual event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a old subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the front steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's ascent as a victory over political establishments.

An Ambitious Platform

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

• Free childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• 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 pose a hurdle to secure. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the city's top earners and corporations. However, as a city under the authority of the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Headwinds

The new mayor must contend with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past criticisms regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a appointments director resigned over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to smooth over these concerns by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing the appearance of losing a Jewish police chief.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding federal funding. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as surprisingly friendly.

The Core Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are judged on their ability in providing essential functions: sanitation, curbing the rodent problem, fixing potholes, and making sure reliable subway service.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his team's anti-crime efforts, pointing to record low numbers of murders and shootings in 2025, with 301 homicides recorded.

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a quirky piece of advice about a supposed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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