Zohran Mamdani was inaugurated as the 112th mayor of New York City shortly after midnight on January 1, 2026, in a ceremony held at the historic Old City Hall subway station. The oath was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Mamdani took the oath on a Quran, making him the first mayor in the city's history to do so. This choice reflects his commitment to inclusivity and the diverse population of New York.

Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, emphasized the importance of public transit in his inaugural remarks, stating that the subway system is vital to the city's functioning. He announced the appointment of Mike Flynn as the new commissioner of the Department of Transportation, aiming to enhance the public transit network.

His election victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in November 2025 was marked by a record voter turnout, with Mamdani securing just over 50% of the votes. His campaign focused on ambitious proposals, including a rent freeze for approximately one million apartments, free public transportation, and universal childcare, which have raised questions about their feasibility amid a projected budget deficit.

Mamdani's administration inherits a city grappling with high living costs, a struggling education system, and staffing shortages in key agencies. He has pledged to prioritize the needs of working-class New Yorkers, aiming to implement policies that directly address economic disparities.

The inauguration included a public ceremony later in the day, featuring remarks from prominent progressive figures such as U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who highlighted the significance of Mamdani's election as a shift towards more equitable governance.

Mamdani's approach to leadership is characterized by a commitment to addressing social and economic inequalities, with plans to fund his initiatives through increased taxes on the wealthiest individuals and corporations in the city. However, his administration will face scrutiny regarding the implementation of these policies and their impact on public services and community engagement.

In his inaugural address, Mamdani expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the contributions of everyday New Yorkers, emphasizing the need for collective action to tackle the challenges facing the city. His administration's success will depend on navigating the complexities of local governance and addressing the pressing needs of the community.