Democratic socialist mayor takes oath with Bernie Sanders presiding, celebrates unified city vision before tens of thousands
Zohran Mamdani’s public inauguration on January 1, 2026, transformed New York City into a celebration of progressive politics, with Senator Bernie Sanders administering the ceremonial oath and Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other national progressive figures sharing the stage. The event drew tens of thousands of supporters to Lower Manhattan and featured performers and speakers championing the mayor’s affordability-focused agenda.
A Coalition of Progressive Leaders
Sanders, the Vermont independent and 2016 and 2020 presidential candidate, used his remarks to connect Mamdani’s victory to broader movements for economic justice across America. Ocasio-Cortez highlighted the historic nature of Mamdani becoming the city’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Other speakers included Javier Munoz of the Public Theater, performance artist Mandy Patinkin, and folk musician Lucy Dacus, creating a cultural celebration distinct from typical mayoral inaugurations.
Unifying Message Despite Opposition
Mamdani’s inaugural address pledged to govern for all New Yorkers, declaring himself mayor even to those who voted against him or viewed his administration with distrust. He spoke directly to construction workers, halal cart vendors, taxi drivers, and others working multiple jobs to afford New York’s costs. The mayor refused to abandon his democratic socialist principles, stating clearly that he was elected as a democratic socialist and would govern accordingly.
Trump Administration Context
According to CNN Politics, Mamdani’s inauguration occurred amid tension with President Trump, who had threatened during the campaign to withhold federal funding from New York if the mayor won. However, NPR reporting detailed how Trump invited Mamdani to the White House in November and promised cooperation, suggesting pragmatic recognition that federal-local partnership would benefit both leaders’ constituents. The mayor now faces the challenge of implementing progressive urban policies while navigating a hostile federal government actively cutting social programs and threatening immigration enforcement.
