Zohran Mamdani sworn in as New York City's first Muslim mayor

Zohran Mamdani has taken office as the 112th mayor of New York City, marking a series of historic firsts for the largest city in the United States. The 34-year-old was sworn in during a public ceremony at City Hall on Thursday, becoming New York's first Muslim, first South Asian, and first African-born mayor after winning a dramatic election upset in November.

A Pledge to Govern as a 'Democratic Socialist' Mayor

In an inaugural address delivered to a crowd of supporters, officials, and family, Mayor Mamdani vowed to govern on the progressive platform that defined his campaign. "I was elected as a Democratic socialist, and I will govern as a Democratic socialist. I will not abandon my principles for fear of being deemed radical," he declared. He reiterated core promises, including implementing universal childcare, instituting rent freezes, and working to ensure "no New Yorker is priced out" of basic necessities. "If you are a New Yorker, I am your mayor," he stated, pledging to represent all residents regardless of political agreement.

An Inauguration Symbolizing a Progressive 'Upset'

The oath of office was administered by Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, a leading figure in the progressive movement who endorsed Mamdani's campaign. Sanders framed the victory as the "biggest political upset in modern American history," praising Mamdani for defeating the Democratic and Republican establishments, the sitting president, and wealthy opponents. Progressive Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also delivered remarks, calling Mamdani's ascent "a new era for New York City" guided by a commitment to the working class.

A Historic Profile and Ambitious Policy Agenda

Beyond his religious and ethnic background, Mamdani is the youngest person in generations to lead New York City. Born in Kampala, Uganda, to Indian immigrant parents, he moved to New York at age seven and became a U.S. citizen in 2018. He rose to prominence after winning a seat in the New York State Assembly in 2020. His ambitious policy agenda for City Hall includes making buses free, expanding rent-stabilized housing, establishing city-run grocery stores, and raising the city's minimum wage to $30 per hour by 2030.