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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “reimagine” America's largest city, promising “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious commencement to his term.

An Unprecedented Figure

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a virtually unknown state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first mayor of South Asian descent. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

“A time such as this is rare and rarer still is it that the citizens whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

Rejecting counsel to be modest, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to change is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will lead boldly and broadly.”

Governing with Socialist Convictions

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his core beliefs. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my convictions for concern of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to an enthusiastic response.

The swearing-in was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a old 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 Blueprint

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

• Subsidized daycare
• No-cost bus transit
• A rent freeze for about 1 million households
• A experiment of municipally-operated grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion expense of these programs may be challenging to secure. Mamdani has vowed to raise taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers and big business. However, as a city under the authority of the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing Political Challenges

The new mayor also faces skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers concerned about his past stances regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director resigned over controversial past social media posts.

Mamdani has sought to smooth over these concerns by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, preventing the appearance of losing a Jewish police chief.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a prior meeting between the two was reportedly unexpectedly cordial.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing basic services: sanitation, curbing the rat infestation, fixing potholes, and making sure reliable subway operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's anti-crime efforts, citing historically low numbers of murders and shootings in 2025, with 301 homicides recorded.

As his term starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the historic mayoral residence. The outgoing mayor offered a quirky piece of advice about a reputed friendly ghost in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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