Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old immigrant and democratic socialist, is poised to become the first Muslim mayor of New York City, with his inauguration scheduled for midnight on January 1, 2026. The event will include both a private ceremony at the historic Old City Hall subway station and a public celebration at City Hall, featuring a block party.

Mamdani's oath of office will be administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James during the private ceremony, while U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders will officiate at the public event. Mamdani plans to use three copies of the Quran for the swearing-in, including one that belonged to his grandfather and another from Arturo Schomburg, a notable figure in African American history, which is being lent by the New York Public Library.

In his remarks, Mamdani has highlighted the significance of the subway station as a symbol of the city’s potential for transformation and his commitment to improving the lives of working-class residents. He aims to address the challenges facing New York City through a lens of democratic socialism, advocating for affordable living conditions and equitable treatment for all, particularly marginalized communities.

The inauguration is expected to attract thousands of attendees and will feature performances and interfaith elements, reinforcing the idea that this victory belongs to the collective. Mamdani's election has garnered attention as a potential catalyst for progressive change in urban politics, reflecting a shift in political possibilities within the United States.

Mamdani's administration will inherit the complexities of the current political climate, which he critiques for its adverse social and economic impacts. He envisions a leadership style that balances the realities of struggle with the celebration of community efforts, aiming to foster a more inclusive and equitable New York City.