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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “reinvent” the metropolis, declaring “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious start to his tenure.

A Groundbreaking Figure

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor born in Africa. He additionally marked a milestone by being the first to be sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A time such as this seldom arrives and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose grasp the levers of change,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring advice to lower expectations, the mayor declared: “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.”

Steering by Socialist Principles

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

The inauguration was a dual event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a old subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's ascent as a victory over the status quo.

A Costly Platform

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

• Subsidized daycare
• Free buses
• A halt to rent increases for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion price tag of these services may prove difficult to secure. Mamdani has pledged to increase levies for the richest residents and big business. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Headwinds

The new mayor also faces concern from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to address these concerns by convincing 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 “socialist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as unexpectedly productive.

The Basic Challenges of Leadership

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their ability in delivering basic services: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, repairing potholes, and ensuring smooth transit service.

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

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Queens apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The outgoing mayor offered a quirky warning about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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