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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “transform” New York City, promising “a new era” and an ambitious start to his term.

A Historic Figure

The young democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a virtually unknown state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the inaugural to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A moment like this comes rarely and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring counsel to be modest, 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 with courage and vision.”

Adhering to Socialist Convictions

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

The inauguration was a two-part event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's ascent as a victory over powerful interests.

An Ambitious Policy Agenda

Mamdani now begins one of the most challenging jobs in American politics, with a plan including:

• Free childcare
• Free buses
• A cap on rents for about 1 million households
• A experiment of municipally-operated grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these programs may be challenging to secure. Mamdani has vowed to tax more heavily the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Dynamics

The new mayor also faces skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has sought to smooth over these tensions 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 labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and threatened withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was described as unexpectedly friendly.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their ability in delivering city upkeep: sanitation, reducing the rat infestation, repairing roadways, and ensuring reliable transit operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's anti-crime efforts, pointing to historically low numbers of murders and gun violence in 2025, with 301 homicides reported.

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual warning about a supposed friendly ghost in the home, which reportedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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