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On his inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “reimagine” New York City, ushering in “a fresh chapter” and an audacious beginning to his administration.

A Historic Figure

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who was a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the inaugural to be sworn in using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind comes rarely and even more uncommon is it that the public whose hold the controls for transformation,” Mamdani added.

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

Adhering to Socialist Convictions

Mamdani did not shy away from his socialist politics. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will lead as one. I will not forsake my principles for worry of being called extreme,” he said to an enthusiastic response.

The swearing-in was a dual event, beginning with a midnight 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 spoke of Mamdani's rise as a victory over political establishments.

A Costly Platform

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

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

The projected $10 billion expense of these services may pose a hurdle to fund. Mamdani has pledged to tax more heavily the city's top earners and corporations. However, as a municipality under the authority of the state government, he will require the legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Managing Political Challenges

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

Mamdani has sought to ease these concerns by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, avoiding the appearance of losing a Jewish police chief.

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

The Fundamental Tests of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in delivering city upkeep: trash collection, curbing the rat infestation, fixing potholes, and making sure reliable subway operation.

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

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

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