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During an inauguration day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” America's largest city, promising “a different age” and an audacious start to his administration.

An Unprecedented Mayor

The new figure, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, has become the city's first Muslim mayor. He additionally marked a milestone 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 grasp the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

Defying advice to temper hopes, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will rule expansively and audaciously.”

Governing with Socialist Convictions

Mamdani openly embraced his core beliefs. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as one. I will not compromise my convictions for concern of being called radical,” he said to loud cheers.

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 front steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's election as a victory over the status quo.

A Costly Platform

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

• Free childcare
• Fare-free public buses
• A cap on rents for approximately 1 million households
• A pilot of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these programs may pose a hurdle to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the city's top earners and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Headwinds

The new mayor will deal with apprehension from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past stances regarding Israel. Tensions were revealed during the transition when a appointments director resigned over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to address these concerns by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was reportedly surprisingly cordial.

The Core Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in delivering essential functions: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, repairing potholes, and ensuring smooth transit service.

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

As his administration begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a unusual piece of advice about a supposed 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.”