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In a inauguration day in the mayor's office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “reimagine” America's largest city, promising “a different age” and an bold beginning to his tenure.

A Historic Leader

The young democratic socialist, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, now stands as the city's first Muslim mayor. He additionally marked a milestone by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A opportunity of this kind is rare and rarer still is it that the citizens whose hold the controls for transformation,” Mamdani added.

Rejecting advice to temper hopes, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of limited ambitions. Beginning today we will lead expansively and audaciously.”

Governing with Socialist Principles

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

The inauguration was a two-part event, starting with a late-night oath-taking in a former subway station. He was formally sworn in on the front steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's rise as a victory over the status quo.

A Costly Policy Agenda

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

• Universal childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A rent freeze for about 1 million households
• A experiment of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these services may be challenging to secure. Mamdani has pledged to increase levies for the richest residents and corporations. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Challenges

The new mayor will deal with apprehension from some members of the Jewish community concerned about his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide resigned over offensive past social media posts.

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

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 described as unexpectedly cordial.

The Core Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in delivering basic services: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, fixing potholes, and ensuring smooth transit operation.

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

As his administration begins, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Astoria apartment to the stately Gracie Mansion. The outgoing mayor offered a unusual warning about a reputed resident spirit in the home, which reportedly only haunts those who do not act to “do right by the city.”

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