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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” America's largest city, ushering in “a new era” and an ambitious beginning to his term.

A Historic Leader

The new political star, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is 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 public whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Defying suggestions to be modest, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of limited ambitions. Beginning today we will lead with courage and vision.”

Governing with Socialist Ideals

Mamdani openly embraced his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my convictions for fear of being called radical,” he proclaimed to an enthusiastic response.

The inauguration was a two-part event, beginning with a midnight oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's election as a victory over powerful interests.

A Costly Blueprint

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

• Universal childcare
• Fare-free public buses
• A halt to rent increases for approximately 1 million households
• A pilot of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these initiatives may pose a hurdle to secure. Mamdani has pledged to tax more heavily the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing Political Dynamics

The new mayor also faces apprehension from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has moved to address these tensions by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the optics of losing a Jewish police chief.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “socialist” and threatened withholding federal funding. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was reportedly surprisingly cordial.

The Fundamental Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in providing basic services: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, fixing roadways, and ensuring reliable transit service.

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

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Queens apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The outgoing mayor offered a quirky warning about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which reportedly only troubles those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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