Zohran Mamdani Officially Becomes Mayor of New York City in Special Midnight Ceremony
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AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura
Zohran Mamdani Sworn in as New York City’s First Muslim Mayor
Zohran Mamdani made history on January 1, 2026, by being sworn in as New York City’s first Muslim mayor. The ceremony took place in the early hours after midnight at an abandoned subway station beneath City Hall in Manhattan, a departure from the more traditional venues typically chosen for such events. Mamdani was accompanied by his wife, Rama Duwaji.
A public ceremony is scheduled for later that day at City Hall Plaza, where he will be introduced by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Mamdani’s transition team highlighted that Ocasio-Cortez’s presence symbolically represents a collective movement aiming to reshape New York City’s government for the betterment of working-class citizens.
"Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez’s presence underscores the leaders central to the movement to usher in a new era for New York City — one focused on delivering an affordability agenda and reimagining what government can do for working people," the team said in a public statement.
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, a fellow democratic socialist, is also expected to attend the public ceremony. Sanders expressed his honor in participating in this historical inauguration, stating, "His inauguration will represent the blending of our city on a subway filled with cacophony, diversity, challenge, and opportunity."
Mamdani, who previously served as the Democratic nominee, defeated prominent figures such as former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the mayoral race held on November 4. Although some opponents incorrectly labeled him a "communist," he identifies with democratic socialism, aligning himself with both Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders.
In his election night acceptance speech, Mamdani pledged to confront "oligarchy and authoritarianism with the strength it fears, not the appeasement it craves."
Zohran Mamdani greets supporters during a primary election night party in Queens on June 24, 2025.
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During his campaign, Mamdani emphasized a commitment to accountability, particularly concerning landlords who exploit tenants and to dismantling conditions that enable wealthy individuals like Donald Trump to accumulate power. "New York will remain a city of immigrants: a city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and, as of tonight, led by an immigrant," he declared.
Shortly after his election, Mamdani visited Trump at the White House, where both leaders found common ground on critical issues, particularly concerning the cost of living and housing in New York City. Despite political differences, Trump complimented Mamdani, noting his new role as mayor would be significant.
"Being the mayor of New York City is a big deal," Trump remarked. "I think you have a chance to make it great."
N.Y.C. Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani greets President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.
Yuri Gripas/Abaca/Bloomberg via Getty
Mamdani’s ascent marks the conclusion of Eric Adams’ single term as mayor, following a tenure characterized by declining popularity. Adams faced voter dissatisfaction related to homelessness and city budget management, compounded by a federal indictment alleging corruption.
As Mamdani steps into office, the implications of his leadership will be closely monitored, especially regarding his promises to tackle the rising costs of living and to foster accountability within the city’s governance.
