Zohran Mamdani Sworn In as New York City Mayor, Marking Historic Firsts
Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City mayor at midnight in the Old City Hall subway station, becoming the city's first Muslim mayor, first person of South Asian descent, and first African-born mayor.
The oath was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James. Attendees included Mamdani's wife Rama Duwaji, his mother, renowned filmmaker Mira Nair, and Mahmood Mamdani.
The public inauguration is planned for New Year's Day with a ceremony on the City Hall steps, a 4,000-guest block party at City Hall Plaza, and free livestream viewing areas along Broadway dubbed the 'Inauguration of a New Era.'
The 34-year-old former state assemblyman campaigned on key issues such as rent freezes and free buses to help address cost-of-living pressures.
More than two million voters turned out for the election, with Mamdani winning about 50% of the vote—a roughly 10-point lead over Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent, and a strong lead over Curtis Sliwa.
Following his inauguration, Mamdani will move from Astoria to Gracie Mansion, the official mayoral residence.
The choice of the Old City Hall subway station for the swearing-in ceremony is significant, as the station is normally accessible only a few times a year via guided tours, symbolizing a connection to working people.
