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In a first day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” the metropolis, ushering in “a new era” and an audacious start to his administration.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The 34-year-old figure, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is the city's first Muslim mayor. He additionally marked a milestone by being the first to be take the oath of office using the Islamic holy text.

“A opportunity of this kind is rare and even more uncommon is it that the citizens whose hands are upon the mechanisms of progress,” Mamdani stated.

Ignoring advice to lower expectations, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will govern expansively and audaciously.”

Steering by Democratic Socialist Principles

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as one. I will not abandon my ideals for worry of being called extreme,” he said to loud cheers.

The ceremony was a dual event, beginning 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 spoke of Mamdani's rise as a victory over political establishments.

A Costly Platform

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

• 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 expense of these initiatives may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has pledged 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 legislative support of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Challenges

The new mayor must contend with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past criticisms regarding Israel. Tensions were highlighted during the transition when a senior aide stepped down over controversial past comments.

Mamdani has attempted to address 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 “communist” and warned of withholding government money. Despite this, a prior encounter between the two was reportedly surprisingly friendly.

The Core Challenges of Governing

Traditionally, New York mayors are judged on their ability in providing city upkeep: trash collection, reducing the rodent problem, repairing potholes, and making sure reliable subway service.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams touted his administration's public safety record, citing historically low numbers of murders and shootings in 2025, with murders recorded.

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

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