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During an first day in office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” New York City, ushering in “a different age” and an ambitious commencement to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The new figure, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the inaugural to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind is rare and rarer still is it that the public whose hands are upon the levers of change,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring advice to be modest, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will rule expansively and audaciously.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Convictions

Mamdani openly embraced his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not abandon my convictions for fear of being called extreme,” he said to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a two-part event, beginning with a midnight 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 spoke of Mamdani's rise as a victory over political establishments.

A Costly Platform

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

• Subsidized daycare
• Fare-free public buses
• A rent freeze for nearly 1 million households
• A trial program of municipally-operated grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these programs may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has vowed to raise taxes on the city's top earners and corporations. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Dynamics

The new mayor also faces concern from some members of the Jewish community alarmed by his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has sought to ease 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 called Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as surprisingly friendly.

The Core Tests of Leadership

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their ability in delivering essential functions: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, repairing potholes, and making sure smooth subway service.

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

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Astoria apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual piece of advice 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 simple statement: “The work has only just begun.”