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In a first day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “reinvent” the metropolis, ushering in “a different age” and an audacious beginning to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is the city's first mayor of South Asian descent. He also made history by being the first 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 people themselves whose hands are upon the controls for transformation,” Mamdani added.

Ignoring advice 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 govern expansively and audaciously.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Convictions

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not abandon my principles for worry of being called extreme,” he said to loud cheers.

The ceremony was a dual event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a former 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 powerful interests.

A Sweeping Platform

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

• Subsidized daycare
• No-cost bus transit
• A halt to rent increases for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion expense of these programs may pose a hurdle to secure. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the richest residents and corporations. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Managing External Dynamics

The new mayor also faces apprehension from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a appointments director stepped down over controversial past comments.

Mamdani has moved to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing the appearance of losing a Jewish police chief.

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

The Basic Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in delivering basic services: trash collection, curbing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and ensuring reliable subway service.

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

As his work starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the stately mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a unusual piece of advice about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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