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In a first day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, declaring “a fresh chapter” and an audacious beginning to his term.

A Groundbreaking Leader

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

“A time such as this seldom arrives and rarer still is it that the citizens whose grasp the controls for transformation,” Mamdani remarked.

Ignoring suggestions to be modest, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of modest goals. Beginning today we will govern expansively and audaciously.”

Steering by Socialist Ideals

Mamdani did not shy away from his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my principles for worry of being called extreme,” he proclaimed to loud cheers.

The swearing-in was a two-part event, beginning 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 the status quo.

An Ambitious Policy Agenda

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

• Universal childcare
• Fare-free public buses
• A rent freeze for about 1 million households
• A experiment of municipally-operated grocery stores

The projected $10 billion cost of these services may be challenging to secure. Mamdani has vowed to raise taxes on 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.

Facing External Headwinds

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

Mamdani has moved to smooth over these concerns by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to stay on, avoiding the appearance of losing a top Jewish official.

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

The Basic Tests of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their ability in delivering basic services: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and making sure smooth transit service.

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

As his administration starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the stately mayoral residence. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual 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 concluded his remarks with a simple statement: “The work has only just begun.”