Zohran Mamdani Sworn In as New York City's First Muslim Mayor with Ambitious Agenda
Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City's mayor in a two-part ceremony that included a midnight oath taken in a disused subway station and a public swearing-in at City Hall. Mamdani used the Qur’an for the oath, marking him as the city’s first Muslim mayor, the first of South Asian descent, and the first born in Africa. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez introduced him, framing the new administration as choosing courage, prosperity for the many, and a new future for working people. Bernie Sanders administered the oath and highlighted Mamdani’s affordability-focused platform, emphasizing that it challenges both major parties and wealthy interests.
Mamdani pledged to govern as a democratic socialist and pursue an expansive, audacious agenda. His campaign platform includes free childcare, free buses, a rent freeze for about 1 million households, and a pilot program for city-run grocery stores. This plan is estimated to cost $10 billion and would be funded by higher taxes on the wealthiest residents and corporations, requiring legislative approval from Albany.
Despite the optimism, Mamdani faces federal and local political challenges, including potential pressure on federal funding from Donald Trump, concerns among some Jewish New Yorkers related to Israel policy positions, and controversy surrounding a transition staffer’s past tweets. He aims to ensure continuity by retaining the current Police Chief. Additionally, Mamdani is moving from his rent-stabilized apartment to Gracie Mansion, signaling a new chapter for the mayoralty.
