NEW YORK, (AFP): Zohran Mamdani was sworn in just after midnight on Thursday, becoming New York City’s mayor as 2026 began and marking a historic first as the city’s first Muslim mayor. The 34-year-old Democrat took the oath of office at a disused subway station beneath City Hall, a symbolic choice his office said reflected his commitment to working-class New Yorkers.
Mamdani, who campaigned on tackling the soaring cost of living, said the moment was “the honor and the privilege of a lifetime.”Virtually unknown a year ago, Mamdani rose rapidly on the US left with an ambitious agenda that includes rent freezes, universal childcare and free public buses. Analysts say his challenge now will be turning symbolism into results. “Once an election is over, results begin to matter a whole lot more,” said New York University lecturer John Kane.
Mamdani’s tenure is expected to bring frequent clashes with President Donald Trump, who has sharply criticized him in the past and threatened to cut federal funding to New York if he was elected. While the two held unexpectedly cordial talks at the White House in November, analysts warn the relationship could quickly deteriorate, particularly over immigration. Mamdani has pledged to protect immigrant communities as Trump expands nationwide enforcement measures.
His private swearing-in was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who previously prosecuted Trump for fraud. A larger public inauguration is scheduled later Thursday outside City Hall, featuring speeches by Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. About 4,000 ticketed guests are expected, with tens of thousands more watching from viewing areas along Broadway.
In another first, Mamdani used multiple copies of the Holy Quran for his oath—two from his family and one belonging to renowned writer Arturo Schomburg, according to The New York Times. Born in Uganda to a family of Indian origin, Mamdani moved to New York at age seven. He previously served a brief term in the New York State Assembly before winning the mayoralty.
To offset his limited experience, he has recruited seasoned aides from past city administrations and the former Biden government. Mamdani will move from his rent-controlled apartment in Queens to the official mayoral residence in Manhattan, citing security reasons. He has also begun outreach to business leaders, many of whom had warned of an exodus of wealthy residents if he won—claims since dismissed by real estate figures.
A vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, Mamdani has sought to reassure New York’s Jewish community of his commitment to inclusive leadership. His administration faced early scrutiny after one appointee resigned when past antisemitic social media posts came to light.
