At 34, Democratic Socialist Becomes City’s First Muslim Mayor, First South Asian, Youngest in Over a Century
A New Era Dawns for New York City
Zohran Mamdani made history on New Year’s Day 2026 when he officially became New York City’s 112th mayor, ushering in an era of progressive leadership focused on affordability and public service. At just 34 years old, the democratic socialist became the city’s youngest mayor in more than a century, as well as the first Muslim and first South Asian person to hold the office in the city’s 374-year history. The significance of Mamdani’s election was underscored by the symbolism of his inauguration ceremony. A private swearing-in took place at midnight on New Year’s Eve at the abandoned City Hall subway stationone of the city’s original 28 stations that opened in 1904. The historic transit hub, long closed to the public, represented Mamdani’s commitment to the working people who sustain the city. Mamdani selected the historic location to reflect his focus on public transit and infrastructure, symbolizing that “the old subway station was a testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health and the legacy of our city.” The choice carried deep meaningthe station, with its distinctive arched ceilings, represents New York’s commitment to ambitious public works that transformed working people’s lives.
A Historic Faith-Based Moment
Mamdani made another historic statement by being sworn in on a Quranthe first New York City mayor to use Islam’s holy text during the oath of office, underscoring the presence of Muslim residents throughout the city’s history. He placed his hand on two Qurans: his grandfather’s and a pocket-sized version dating to the late 18th or early 19th century. Following the inauguration, the historic Quran was placed on public display at the New York Public Library, with scholars hoping the attention will prompt New Yorkers to explore the library’s collections documenting Islamic life in the city, ranging from early 20th century music recordings to firsthand accounts of Islamophobia after September 11.
Public Ceremony with Progressive Icons
At his public inauguration ceremony on the steps of City Hall at 1 p.m., Mamdani was sworn in by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, a Brooklyn-born independent and fellow democratic socialist. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a fellow democratic socialist representing the Bronx, delivered opening remarks. Mitchell Moss, a professor of urban policy at New York University, told reporters that “the Mamdani inaugural on Jan. 1 is going to attract a global audience,” noting that the participation of Sanders signals that “this is a national event” and demonstrates Mamdani’s ideological roots. Instead of a traditional 4,000-ticket ceremonial event, Mamdani pioneered a free, public block party on Broadway along the Canyon of Heroes featuring dedicated viewing areas for tens of thousands. Broadway between Worth Street and Battery Place, and Liberty Street between Church Street and Broadway, were closed for the inauguration. Former Mayor Bill de Blasio and current Mayor Eric Adams were expected to attend, symbolizing peaceful transfer of power.
Delivering on Campaign Promises
Mamdani’s campaign promises included a rent freeze for rent-stabilized apartments, free bus fares, and free childcare for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Mitchell Moss noted that “no one expects a new mayor to do everything they promise, but they have to be making progress on their promises,” and that Mamdani “has to have some wins this year, which lay the ground for bigger wins in the future.” Despite questions during his campaign about his relative lack of political experience and feasibility of his proposals, Mamdani maintained moderate stances on policing and committed to keeping Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch in her role. His unlikely political risefrom relative unknown assemblyman to primary victor defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomodemonstrated deep voter engagement with affordability issues affecting millions of New Yorkers.
