Zohran Mamdani Sworn in as New York City's First Muslim Mayor
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Zohran Mamdani, 34, becomes New York City's first Muslim and South Asian mayor, taking the oath in a historic subway station ceremony.
Zohran Mamdani, 34, was sworn in as New York City's 112th mayor just after midnight on January 1, 2026, in a private ceremony held at the decommissioned Old City Hall subway station. Administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, Mamdani placed his hand on a Quran, becoming the city's first Muslim and South Asian mayor.
"This is truly the honor and the privilege of a lifetime," Mamdani stated during the ceremony.
The choice of venue, a historic subway station beneath City Hall, underscores Mamdani's commitment to public infrastructure and the working class. He emphasized the station as a "testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health and the legacy of our city."
A public inauguration is scheduled for 1 p.m. at City Hall, where U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders will administer the oath. The event will be followed by a block party on Broadway.
Mamdani's platform focuses on affordability, proposing initiatives such as free childcare, free bus services, and a rent freeze for approximately one million households. He also plans to pilot city-run grocery stores to address the high cost of living.
Born in Kampala, Uganda, Mamdani moved to New York City at age seven. He previously served in the State Assembly representing Queens' 36th District before his election as mayor.
His election marks a significant shift in the city's political landscape, reflecting a growing support for progressive policies among New Yorkers.
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