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During an initial day in his new role, Zohran Mamdani pledged to “reinvent” New York City, ushering in “a new era” and an audacious commencement to his tenure.

A Groundbreaking Leader

The 34-year-old democratic socialist, who just a year ago remained a relatively obscure state assemblyman, is the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the inaugural to be take the oath of office using the Qur'an.

“A time such as this is rare and rarer still is it that the public whose grasp the levers of change,” Mamdani remarked.

Defying advice to be modest, the mayor declared: “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.”

Adhering to Socialist Convictions

Mamdani openly embraced his core beliefs. “I was elected as a socialist leader and I will lead as one. I will not abandon my convictions for concern of being called radical,” he said to rapturous applause.

The ceremony was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a old subway station. He was formally sworn in on the steps of city hall by political ally Bernie Sanders, who praised Mamdani's rise as a victory over powerful interests.

A Costly Policy Agenda

Mamdani now begins one of the most unrelenting jobs in American politics, with a platform including:

• Free childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A cap on rents for nearly 1 million households
• A pilot of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion cost of these programs may prove difficult to fund. Mamdani has pledged to raise taxes on the richest residents and big business. However, as a municipality subject to the state government, he will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Facing External Challenges

The new mayor also faces concern from some members of the Jewish community alarmed by his past comments regarding Israel. Sensitivities were revealed during the transition when a appointments director resigned over offensive past tweets.

Mamdani has sought to address these tensions by convincing Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding the optics of losing a top Jewish official.

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 reportedly surprisingly cordial.

The Fundamental Tests of Governing

Ultimately, New York mayors are judged on their success in delivering essential functions: sanitation, reducing the rat infestation, fixing roadways, and ensuring smooth transit operation.

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

As his work begins, Mamdani and his wife will relocate from their Queens apartment to the stately mayoral residence. The previous occupant offered a quirky piece of advice about a supposed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only haunts those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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