Mamdani vows a new era for NYC in first mayoral address: ‘I will govern as a democratic socialist’

NEWYORK CITY, NEW YORK: Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the mayor of New York City on Thursday, promising a “new era” for the nation’s largest metropolis as he formally took office.

The 34-year-old democratic socialist made history as the city’s first Muslim mayor, its first mayor of South Asian descent, and its first mayor born in Africa. His inauguration marked a symbolic and political shift for the city as he vowed to lead with conviction rather than caution.

Zohran Mamdani vows bold action instead of playing it safe

During his inaugural address on Thursday, January 1, Mamdani told New Yorkers that his administration would prioritize courage over comfort. He framed the moment as one defined by responsibility and possibility, saying leadership required taking risks in pursuit of justice.

He noted that “a moment like this comes rarely, and rarer still is it that the people themselves whose hands are upon the levers of change.” 

Mamdani added, “I will do no such thing. The only expectation I seek to reset is that of small expectations. Beginning today, we will govern expansively and audaciously. We may not always succeed, but never will we be accused of lacking the courage to try.”

Zohran Mamdani vows not to abandon core principles

The newly sworn-in mayor also made clear that his political identity would remain unchanged now that he holds office.

“I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist,” Mamdani said. “I will not abandon my principles for fear of being called radical.”

He closed his remarks by reminding New Yorkers that his administration’s work was only beginning, telling the crowd, “The work has only just begun.”

Zohran Mamdani resets city policy by revoking recent orders

Within hours of taking office, Mamdani moved to reverse several executive orders issued by former Mayor Eric Adams following his September 2024 indictment.

Among them was a directive that barred city appointees from participating in boycotts or divestment efforts related to Israel. Mamdani’s office said the reversals were intended to offer a “fresh start for the incoming administration” and allow for the reissuance of policies aligned with its governing values. 

The statement added that the changes were aimed at delivering “continued service, excellence, and value-driven leadership.”

Zohran Mamdani began term with midnight ceremony underground

The inauguration unfolded in two parts, beginning with a midnight ceremony held inside a disused subway station. Mamdani was joined by his wife, Rama Duwaji, and New York Attorney General Letitia James.

The formal swearing-in later took place under the leadership of Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime ally whose presidential campaigns helped shape Mamdani’s political outlook.

Sanders said Mamdani was taking office “at a time when we are seeing too much hatred, too much division, and too much injustice,” adding that New York needed “a government that works for all, not just the wealthy and the few.”