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On his first day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, declaring “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious start to his administration.

A Historic Mayor

The new figure, who just a year ago remained a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A opportunity of this kind seldom arrives and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose grasp the controls for transformation,” Mamdani remarked.

Defying suggestions to lower expectations, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to change is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will lead with courage and vision.”

Adhering to Democratic Socialist Ideals

Mamdani did not shy away from his political ideology. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my principles for concern of being called radical,” he said to an enthusiastic response.

The swearing-in was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's ascent as a victory over the status quo.

An Ambitious Platform

Mamdani now begins one of the most demanding jobs in American politics, with a platform including:

• Universal childcare
• Fare-free public buses
• A rent freeze for about 1 million households
• A trial program of city-run grocery stores

The projected $10 billion cost of these services may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has vowed to tax more heavily the city's top earners and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Managing Political Dynamics

The new mayor must contend with skepticism from some members of the Jewish community concerned about his past stances regarding Israel. Tensions were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over offensive past tweets.

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

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has labeled Mamdani a “socialist” and warned of withholding federal funding. Despite this, a recent encounter between the two was reportedly surprisingly friendly.

The Core Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their success in providing essential functions: trash collection, curbing the rat infestation, repairing potholes, and making sure reliable subway service.

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

As his term begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a unusual warning about a supposed friendly ghost in the home, which reportedly only haunts those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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