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On his inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, promising “a new era” and an bold start to his administration.

An Unprecedented Mayor

The new figure, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor of South Asian descent. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A opportunity of this kind seldom arrives and even more uncommon is it that the public whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

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

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Principles

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his core beliefs. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my ideals for concern of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a two-part event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was officially inaugurated 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 Costly Blueprint

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

• Universal childcare
• Free buses
• A rent freeze for approximately 1 million households
• A trial program of municipally-operated grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these programs may prove difficult to secure. Mamdani has pledged to increase levies for the city's top earners and corporations. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Managing External Headwinds

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

Mamdani has moved to smooth over these tensions by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the optics of losing a top Jewish official.

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

The Fundamental Tests of Leadership

Traditionally, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in providing basic services: trash collection, curbing the rodent problem, fixing roadways, and ensuring reliable transit service.

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

As his work begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the stately mayoral residence. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual piece of advice about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which reportedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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