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In a first day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, ushering in “a new era” and an bold commencement to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Figure

The new figure, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind seldom arrives and even more uncommon is it that the public whose grasp the controls for transformation,” Mamdani added.

Defying counsel to lower expectations, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of limited ambitions. Beginning today we will lead expansively and audaciously.”

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 abandon my ideals for fear of being called extreme,” he said to rapturous applause.

The swearing-in was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a old 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 political establishments.

An Ambitious Blueprint

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

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

The estimated $10 billion cost of these services may pose a hurdle to finance. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the richest residents and big business. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Headwinds

The new mayor must contend with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past criticisms regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has moved to smooth over these concerns by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, 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 unexpectedly friendly.

The Fundamental Challenges of Leadership

Traditionally, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in delivering basic services: trash collection, curbing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and making sure reliable subway service.

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

As his term starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The outgoing mayor offered a quirky piece of advice about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which reportedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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