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In a first day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “transform” America's largest city, promising “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious beginning to his term.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The young democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, has become the city's first Muslim mayor. He additionally marked a milestone by being the inaugural to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind seldom arrives and rarer still is it that the citizens whose hold the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Defying suggestions 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 boldly and broadly.”

Steering by Socialist Ideals

Mamdani openly embraced his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my ideals for worry of being called radical,” 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 political ally Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's ascent as a victory over political establishments.

A Costly Blueprint

Mamdani now begins one of the most challenging jobs in American politics, with a plan featuring:

• Universal childcare
• Fare-free public buses
• A cap on rents for nearly 1 million households
• A trial program of city-run grocery stores

The projected $10 billion cost of these programs may pose a hurdle to fund. Mamdani has vowed to raise taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers and corporations. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Headwinds

The new mayor must contend with concern from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a senior aide resigned over controversial past tweets.

Mamdani has moved to ease these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, preventing the optics of losing a top Jewish official.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “socialist” and threatened withholding government money. Despite this, a recent encounter between the two was reportedly unexpectedly friendly.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in providing basic services: sanitation, reducing the rat infestation, fixing roadways, and ensuring reliable transit operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's anti-crime efforts, pointing to historically low numbers of murders and shootings in 2025, with murders reported.

As his work begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual piece of advice about a supposed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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