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In a inauguration day in office, Zohran Mamdani committed to “transform” America's largest city, declaring “a new era” and an bold beginning to his tenure.

A Groundbreaking Mayor

The new figure, who was a virtually unknown state assemblyman, has become the city's first mayor born in Africa. He also made history by being the first to be sworn in using the Qur'an.

“A moment like this is rare and even more uncommon is it that the public whose hold the controls for transformation,” Mamdani stated.

Defying suggestions to temper hopes, the mayor asserted: “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to redefine is that of limited ambitions. Beginning today we will rule with courage and vision.”

Governing with Democratic Socialist Principles

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

The ceremony was a dual event, starting with a midnight oath-taking in a disused subway station. He was officially inaugurated on the front steps of city hall by Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders, who spoke of Mamdani's election as a victory over powerful interests.

A Sweeping Blueprint

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

• Universal childcare
• Free buses
• A halt to rent increases for about 1 million households
• A experiment of city-run grocery stores

The estimated $10 billion price tag of these services may be challenging to finance. 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 backing of Governor Kathy Hochul.

Navigating External Challenges

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

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 labeled Mamdani a “communist” and threatened withholding government money. Despite this, a recent meeting between the two was described as unexpectedly productive.

The Basic Challenges of Governing

In the end, New York mayors are judged on their success in providing basic services: trash collection, reducing the rat infestation, repairing roadways, and making sure reliable transit operation.

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

As his term starts, Mamdani and his wife will move from their Queens apartment to the historic Gracie Mansion. The previous occupant offered a quirky warning about a supposed resident spirit in the home, which allegedly only troubles those who fail to “do right by the city.”

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