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In a initial day in office, Zohran Mamdani vowed to “transform” the metropolis, ushering in “a fresh chapter” and an audacious beginning to his administration.

A Historic Leader

The new 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 sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A opportunity of this kind comes rarely and even more uncommon is it that the public whose grasp the levers of change,” Mamdani added.

Rejecting advice to be modest, the mayor declared: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of small expectations. Beginning today we will lead expansively and audaciously.”

Adhering to Socialist Principles

Mamdani explicitly affirmed his socialist politics. “I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will lead as one. I will not compromise my convictions for worry of being called extreme,” he said to an enthusiastic response.

The inauguration was a two-part event, beginning with a late-night 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 political establishments.

A Costly Policy Agenda

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

• Free childcare
• No-cost bus transit
• A cap on rents for approximately 1 million households
• A pilot of municipally-operated grocery stores

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

Facing External Challenges

The new mayor will deal with skepticism from some Jewish New Yorkers alarmed by his past criticisms regarding Israel. Tensions were revealed during the transition when a senior aide resigned over offensive past comments.

Mamdani has attempted to address these tensions by persuading Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain, avoiding 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 federal funding. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as surprisingly friendly.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are evaluated by their ability in delivering essential functions: trash collection, curbing the rodent problem, repairing roadways, and making sure reliable subway service.

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

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

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