By RismadarVoice Media
January 1, 2026
Zohran Mamdani has been sworn in as the 112th Mayor of New York City, marking a historic moment in the city’s political history.
Mamdani, a 34 year old former state assemblyman from Queens, took the oath of office early Thursday morning during a private ceremony held inside the old City Hall subway station beneath City Hall Park in Manhattan. The oath was administered by New York State Attorney General Letitia James.
With his inauguration, Mamdani becomes the first Muslim Mayor of New York City, the first South Asian Mayor and the youngest person to hold the office in more than 100 years.
Speaking shortly after being sworn in, Mamdani described the moment as the honor and privilege of a lifetime, pledging to govern with a focus on affordability, inclusion in one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Mamdani rose to national, international attention after a stunning victory in the Democratic primary last year.
His campaign centered on easing the cost of living for working class residents. Key promises include the introduction of universal childcare, a freeze on rent for millions of rent stabilized tenants and reforms to public transportation including free city bus services.
The swearing in ceremony was attended by his wife, artist Rama Duwaji, as well as his parents, filmmaker Mira Nair and academic Mahmood Mamdani. The choice of venue carried symbolic meaning, highlighting Mamdani’s emphasis on public transportation as a pillar of urban development, economic equity.
Following the ceremony, Mamdani announced the appointment of Michael Flynn, a longtime city planner, as the new Commissioner of the Department of Transportation. Public transit reform is expected to be one of the defining priorities of the new administration, alongside expanded bicycle lanes and pedestrian friendly streets.
A larger public inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place later Thursday at City Hall Plaza, where thousands of supporters are expected to gather. Prominent progressive figures, including members of the United States Congress, are also expected to attend.
Mamdani’s administration begins at a time when New York City is experiencing economic resilience but continued pressure from rising housing costs and widening inequality. His proposals to fund social programs through higher taxes on the wealthy will require cooperation from the state legislature and Governor, setting the stage for early political tests.
Political observers say Mamdani’s victory and inauguration have also reignited broader debates within the Democratic Party about the future direction of progressive politics in the United States, particularly ahead of upcoming midterm elections. As he officially takes office, supporters see Mamdani’s leadership as the beginning of a new chapter for New York City, while critics remain watchful of how his ambitious promises will translate into policy.
