New York City has ushered in a historic new chapter with the inauguration of Zohran Mamdani, who pledged to bring a "new era of politics" to the metropolis during a ceremony marked by pointed omissions and vocal crowd reactions.
A Historic and Chilly Inauguration Day
The 34-year-old democratic socialist was sworn in as the city's 112th mayor on Thursday, 1 January 2026, outside City Hall. Braving subzero temperatures, a crowd witnessed Mamdani become the first Muslim, first South Asian, and youngest mayor in over a century to lead the nation's largest city.
In a significant personal and symbolic gesture, he took the oath of office with his hand on a Quran. The oath was administered by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, whom Mamdani praised as a leader he seeks to "emulate."
Notable Absences and Audible Reactions
The new mayor's address was notable for the political figures it did not name. Despite frequently criticising him on the campaign trail, Mamdani made no mention of President Donald Trump. This silence comes just a month after a surprisingly genial meeting at the White House, where Trump predicted Mamdani would be a "really great mayor."
He also honoured a pledge from his victory speech by avoiding any reference to former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran against him as an independent.
The speech's most audible moment came when Mamdani thanked his immediate predecessor, Eric Adams. As he acknowledged the outgoing mayor, boos erupted from sections of the crowd, reflecting the damaged reputation Adams carries after bribery charges led him to decline a re-election bid.
The Democratic Socialist Policy Agenda
Mamdani used his platform to firmly outline his governing philosophy and policy goals. "I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist," he declared, drawing cheers.
His ambitious plans for the city include:
- Implementing universal childcare.
- Freezing rents across the city.
- Creating a fare-free bus system.
- Establishing a Department of Community Safety to redefine policing.
- Raising taxes on the wealthy.
He acknowledged the controversy some plans may stir, even within his own party, but vowed not to abandon his principles. "We will answer to all New Yorkers, not to any billionaire or oligarch," he stated.
A Gathering of Political Heavyweights
The ceremony featured a who's who of progressive politics. Speakers included New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and City Comptroller Mark Levine. On stage, Mamdani was joined by his wife and parents, former Mayors Adams and Bill de Blasio, and Governor Kathy Hochul, who notably opposes personal income tax increases.
Mamdani closed his address by directly speaking to critics doubting the left's ability to govern. "They want to know if it is right to hope again," he said. "The work, my friends, has only just begun."
