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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “reinvent” America's largest city, declaring “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious commencement to his administration.

A Historic Leader

The young democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A moment like this comes rarely and rarer still is it that the public whose hold the levers of change,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring suggestions to lower expectations, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will rule with courage and vision.”

Steering by Socialist Principles

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his socialist politics. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not forsake my convictions for concern of being called radical,” he said to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a dual event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's rise as a victory over powerful interests.

A Sweeping Policy Agenda

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

• Universal childcare
• Free buses
• A halt to rent increases for about 1 million households
• A trial program of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion price tag of these services may be challenging to finance. Mamdani has vowed to increase levies for the city's top earners and big business. 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 concern from some members of the Jewish community alarmed by his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has attempted to ease these concerns by convincing 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 threatened withholding federal funding. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as unexpectedly cordial.

The Fundamental Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in delivering basic services: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, fixing potholes, and ensuring reliable transit operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams highlighted his team's anti-crime efforts, citing historically low numbers of murders and shootings in 2025, with murders recorded.

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a unusual warning about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which reportedly only haunts those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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