Zohran Kwame Mamdani was sworn in last Thursday as New York City’s 112th mayor, beginning his term with an inaugural address that outlined his administration’s priorities and emphasized expansive government action, affordability, and democratic socialist principles. The ceremony, held outside City Hall on January 1, marked several historic firsts and formally transferred power following Mamdani’s election victory in November.

“My fellow New Yorkers, today begins a new era,” Mamdani said in his opening remarks, according to CBS News. He added that he was “humbled by the faith” voters placed in him as he took the oath of office.

Policy Direction and Governing Philosophy

In his address, Mamdani reiterated the political identity that defined his campaign, stating that he intends to govern as a democratic socialist. He framed his approach as a response to what he described as long-standing public frustration with government institutions.

“I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as a democratic socialist,” Mamdani said, reported by The New York Times, adding that he would not shift his views “for fear of being deemed radical.”

Mamdani argued that skepticism toward the government has grown over time and said his administration would attempt to rebuild trust through more assertive public policy. “We will restore that trust by walking a different path,” he said, according to CBS News.

Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who administered Mamdani’s oath, addressed the crowd following the swearing-in. Sanders described the election outcome as a significant political upset and said policies aimed at increasing taxes on wealthy individuals and corporations should not be considered extreme.

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also spoke, encouraging New Yorkers to view the inauguration as a shared moment and urging continued civic engagement.

Key Proposals and Priorities

Mamdani reaffirmed several major policy proposals from his campaign, including fare-free city buses, a rent freeze, and expanded access to child care. He said these initiatives would be funded in part through increased taxes on the city’s highest earners and large corporations.

“For too long in our city, freedom has belonged only to those who can afford to buy it,” Mamdani said, recounted by CBS News. “Our City Hall will change that.” He acknowledged that the agenda would be ambitious and said his administration would pursue its goals even if

outcomes were uncertain. “We may not always succeed,” Mamdani said, “but never will we be accused of lacking the courage to try.”

Approximately 4,000 ticketed guests attended the ceremony at City Hall Plaza in Manhattan, while additional spectators gathered along the Canyon of Heroes, where a public inauguration celebration took place.

Historic Aspects of the Inauguration

At 34 years old, Mamdani is the youngest mayor of New York City since Hugh J. Grant in 1892 and the first Muslim and South Asian person to hold the office. Earlier in the day, he was sworn-in with a private ceremony at midnight in the former Old City Hall subway station in Manhattan, where he took the oath on a Quran held by his wife, Rama Duwaji.

The public ceremony included interfaith prayers and musical performances, reflecting the city’s religious and cultural diversity. Mamdani referenced his upbringing in New York City during the speech, drawing applause from the crowd.

Message to Opponents and Supporters

Despite a divisive campaign, Mamdani addressed New Yorkers who did not support his candidacy, saying his administration would represent all residents.

“I know there are some who view this administration with distrust or disdain,” he said, reported by The New York Times. “If you are a New Yorker, I am your mayor.”

Mamdani also referenced former Mayor Eric Adams, acknowledging their political differences while noting Adams’ role as his predecessor.

National Attention and Outlook

Mamdani concluded by noting that his administration would be closely watched both within and beyond New York City, particularly as it pursues policies that differ from those of previous administrations.

“There are many who will be watching,” Mamdani said, according to CBS News. “They want to know if the left can govern.”

He closed by emphasizing that the inauguration marked the beginning of his term rather than a conclusion.

“The world continues, the work endures,” Mamdani said, reported by CBS News. “The work has only just begun.”