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During an initial day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “reimagine” the metropolis, ushering in “a new era” and an ambitious beginning to his administration.

An Unprecedented Leader

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a virtually unknown state assemblyman, is the city's first Muslim mayor. He also made history by being the inaugural to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A moment like this is rare and even more uncommon is it that the citizens whose hold the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

Defying counsel to lower expectations, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will rule expansively and audaciously.”

Adhering to Socialist Ideals

Mamdani openly embraced his political ideology. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my ideals for worry of being called extreme,” he said to rapturous applause.

The swearing-in was a two-part event, beginning with a late-night oath-taking in a old 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 the status quo.

An Ambitious Policy Agenda

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

• Subsidized daycare
• Free buses
• A rent freeze for approximately 1 million households
• A trial program of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion expense of these services may pose a hurdle to secure. Mamdani has vowed to increase levies for the city's top earners and big business. However, as a city under the authority of the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Challenges

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 stepped down over offensive past tweets.

Mamdani has sought to address 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 “communist” and threatened withholding federal funding. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was described as unexpectedly friendly.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing basic services: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, fixing potholes, and ensuring smooth transit service.

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

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the historic 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 fail to “do right by the city.”

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