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During an initial day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, promising “a new era” and an ambitious beginning to his tenure.

A Historic Figure

The 34-year-old political star, who just a year ago remained a virtually unknown state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first mayor born in Africa. He additionally marked a milestone by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A moment like this seldom arrives and even more uncommon is it that the people themselves whose grasp the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Ignoring advice to lower expectations, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of limited ambitions. Beginning today we will rule boldly and broadly.”

Steering by Socialist Ideals

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his core beliefs. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will govern as one. I will not compromise my principles for fear of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's election as a victory over powerful interests.

A Costly Policy Agenda

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

• 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 price tag of these initiatives may be challenging to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the city's top earners and big business. However, as a city subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Headwinds

The new mayor will deal with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past criticisms regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide resigned over offensive past tweets.

Mamdani has attempted to address these concerns by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, avoiding the optics of losing a Jewish police chief.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has labeled Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a recent encounter between the two was described as unexpectedly cordial.

The Fundamental Tests of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing essential functions: sanitation, curbing the rat infestation, fixing potholes, and making sure smooth subway operation.

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

As his work 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 supposed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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