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In a first day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, ushering in “a fresh chapter” and an ambitious start to his term.

A Historic Mayor

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor of South Asian descent. 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 public whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani added.

Rejecting advice to be modest, the mayor was emphatic: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will rule expansively and audaciously.”

Steering by Socialist Ideals

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his socialist politics. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my ideals for concern of being called extreme,” he said to rapturous applause.

The swearing-in was a dual event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's election as a victory over political establishments.

A Sweeping Policy Agenda

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

• Universal childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A rent freeze for approximately 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion expense of these services may pose a hurdle to finance. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the richest residents and big business. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating Political Headwinds

The new mayor also faces skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past criticisms regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a appointments director resigned over controversial past comments.

Mamdani has attempted to address these tensions by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, preventing the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

On the national stage, former President Donald Trump has called Mamdani a “communist” and warned of withholding federal funding. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was reportedly surprisingly productive.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in providing basic services: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, fixing potholes, and ensuring reliable transit operation.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his team's anti-crime efforts, pointing to record low numbers of homicides and shootings in 2025, with 301 homicides recorded.

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

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