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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” the metropolis, declaring “a new era” and an audacious commencement to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The young political star, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the inaugural to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

“A moment like this seldom arrives and rarer still is it that the citizens whose hold the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

Ignoring suggestions to temper hopes, 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 lead boldly and broadly.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Ideals

Mamdani openly embraced his core beliefs. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not forsake my principles for fear of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to rapturous applause.

The inauguration was a two-part event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a old subway station. He was formally sworn in on the front steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's ascent as a victory over the status quo.

A Sweeping Policy Agenda

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

• Universal childcare
• Free buses
• A cap on rents for nearly 1 million households
• A trial program of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion expense of these services may prove difficult to secure. Mamdani has pledged to increase levies for the wealthiest New Yorkers and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Managing Political Dynamics

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

Mamdani has attempted to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, preventing the optics of losing a Jewish police chief.

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

The Basic Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in providing essential functions: trash collection, curbing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and ensuring smooth subway operation.

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

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

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