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Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as mayor of New York City just after midnight on Thursday, marking a historic moment as he became the first Muslim to lead the nation’s largest city.
The Democrat took the oath of office at the decommissioned City Hall subway station beneath Manhattan, placing his hand on the Qur’an during the ceremony. The location—one of New York’s original subway stops—was chosen for its symbolism and historic significance, known for its ornate arched ceilings.
According to the Associated Press, the oath was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
“This is truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime,” Mamdani said in brief remarks following the ceremony.
A Symbolic Start
In his first address as mayor, Mamdani described the underground venue as “a testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health, and the legacy of our city.” He also announced Mike Flynn as his commissioner of the Department of Transportation.
He concluded by thanking attendees before heading upstairs from the station, saying, “Thank you all so much, now I will see you later.”
Mamdani is scheduled to be sworn in again at a public ceremony later Thursday at City Hall, with U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders administering the oath. The event will be followed by a public block party along Broadway’s famed “Canyon of Heroes.”
A Historic Profile
At 34, Mamdani is the youngest mayor New York City has had in generations. He is also the city’s first mayor of South Asian descent and the first to be born in Africa.
Born in Kampala, Uganda, Mamdani moved to New York City at the age of seven. He became a U.S. citizen in 2018 and was elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020, representing parts of Queens.
Policy Priorities
Mamdani’s campaign focused heavily on affordability and cost-of-living issues. His proposals included free child care, fare-free bus service, a rent freeze for roughly one million households, and a pilot program for city-run grocery stores.
He assumes office as New York City continues its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. While violent crime, unemployment, and tourism have largely returned to pre-pandemic levels, high prices and rising rents remain significant challenges for residents.
Political Challenges Ahead
Mamdani will also have to manage relations with Republican President Donald Trump. During the campaign, Trump threatened to withhold federal funding if Mamdani won, though he later invited the mayor to the White House.
“I want him to do a great job and will help him do a great job,” Trump said.
In the weeks since his election, Mamdani has focused on ensuring a smooth transition, including retaining Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch—a decision that helped reassure business leaders.
Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji, are expected to move from their rent-stabilised apartment into the official mayoral residence in Manhattan.
All photo credits: Associated Press (AP)
