Zohran Mamdani Sworn-in As FIRST Muslim-Socialist NYC Mayor
On January 1, 2026, Zohran Mamdani was officially sworn in as the 112th mayor of New York City, marking a series of historic firsts for the nation’s largest metropolis. At 34 years old, Mamdani becomes the youngest mayor in over a century, the first Muslim mayor, the first South Asian American mayor, and the first born in Africa (Uganda) to lead the city. As a self-described democratic socialist and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, his inauguration represents a significant shift toward progressive leadership in one of America’s most influential urban centers.
The swearing-in began just after midnight in a symbolic private ceremony held in the decommissioned, historic City Hall subway station—an abandoned beaux-arts gem beneath Manhattan. New York Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath, with Mamdani placing his hand on a Quran (including a centuries-old edition on loan from the New York Public Library and family copies), making him the first NYC mayor to take the oath using Islam’s holy book. His wife, Rama Duwaji, stood by his side, alongside close family members including his renowned parents: filmmaker Mira Nair and academic Mahmood Mamdani.
A larger public ceremony followed later that day outside City Hall, drawing tens of thousands of supporters despite freezing temperatures and snow. Introduced by allies like Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and sworn in again by Senator Bernie Sanders, Mamdani delivered an inaugural address vowing to govern “expansively and audaciously” as a democratic socialist. He emphasized a focus on affordability, declaring: “I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist.” His speech celebrated New York City’s diversity while pledging to serve all residents, including those who did not vote for him.
Mamdani’s path to City Hall was meteoric. A former New York State Assemblymember representing Queens’ Astoria district, he announced his mayoral bid in late 2024 on a platform centered on economic justice: freezing rents in stabilized units, making city buses free, expanding universal child care, and even proposing city-run grocery stores to combat high prices. He stunned political observers by defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the June 2025 Democratic primary, then prevailed in the November general election against Cuomo (running as an independent) and Republican Curtis Sliwa, securing over 50% of the vote amid record turnout driven by young and progressive voters.
His victory drew national attention—and controversy. Supporters hailed it as a triumph for working-class priorities and progressive ideals, while critics, including some conservative voices and President Trump, labeled him a “communist” and warned of potential economic fallout. Yet Mamdani has signaled willingness to work across lines, including meetings with business leaders.
On his first day, Mamdani signed executive orders revitalizing tenant protections, revoking certain policies from the prior administration, and establishing new offices focused on mass public engagement. He also quickly appointed key figures, including housing advocates and experienced administrators, to advance his agenda.
As Mayor Mamdani begins his term, New York City enters an era defined by bold experimentation in addressing inequality, housing, and affordability—while navigating challenges from state and federal leaders. His swearing-in is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of a city choosing transformative change at a pivotal moment. Only time will tell how his vision unfolds, but January 1, 2026, has already etched itself into New York history.