At a Glance
- Zohran Mamdani sworn in as 112th mayor of New York.
- He vows to pursue a bold progressive agenda as a Democratic socialist.
- The inauguration featured speeches by Sanders, AOC, and performances, with Mamdani pledging inclusive celebrations.
- Why it matters: The new mayor plans to raise taxes on high earners to fund universal childcare, free transit, and rent freezes, requiring state approval.
Zohran Mamdani, New York’s first Muslim mayor, was sworn in Thursday, pledging a bold progressive agenda that includes universal childcare, a free bus system, and rent freezes.
Historic Inauguration
Mamdani took the oath at City Hall after midnight, with Senator Bernie Sanders administering the ceremony and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivering a speech. The event also featured musical performances by Lucy Dacus, Mandy Patinkin and schoolchildren.
Mamdani’s oath was taken with his hands on two Qurans-one from his grandfather and one from the Schomburg Center-while paying a $9 fee and signing the mayoral book.
Mamdani stated:
> “I was elected as a Democratic socialist and I will govern as a Democratic socialist.”
AOC said:
> “If we can make it here, we can make it anywhere.”
Sanders said:
> “Demanding that the wealthy and large corporations start paying their fair share of taxes is not radical. It is exactly the right thing to do.”
Mamdani added:
> “This is truly the honor and the privilege of a lifetime.”
Progressive Agenda
Mamdani announced a plan to lower costs for New Yorkers, promising universal free childcare, a free bus system, and rent freezes for certain units.
He said the bulk of the funding would come from raising taxes on residents earning over $1 million, a measure that will need state approval.
- Universal free childcare
- Free bus system
- Rent freezes
- Tax hikes on high earners
State Collaboration
Governor Kathy Hochul, who has opposed raising taxes on anyone, said she would work with legislators to find revenue streams, including corporate taxes.
Hochul added that the budget process is unfolding and the state will work with the mayor to determine what is doable in the upcoming years.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Inauguration | Thursday |
| 2026 State Legislative Session | Jan 7 |
Key Takeaways
- Zohran Mamdani pledges a progressive agenda including universal childcare, free transit, and rent freezes.
- His plans rely on raising taxes on high earners, requiring state approval.
- Governor Hochul will work with legislators to identify revenue sources for the mayor’s proposals.
The inauguration signals a shift toward a more inclusive and progressive city government, but its success will hinge on securing state backing for his tax proposals.
Contributed by Daniel J. Whitman
