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Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the new mayor of New York City just minutes into the New Year, marking the beginning of a historic and closely watched administration. The midnight oath-taking took place at the long-closed City Hall subway station, a symbolic and rarely used location beneath Lower Manhattan. Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, stood beside him as New York State Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath of office.
By tradition, New York City mayors are sworn in shortly after midnight on January 1 to ensure a clear transfer of power, as state law dictates that four-year mayoral terms begin that day. Mamdani’s decision to use the Old City Hall subway station, decommissioned since the mid-20th century and accessible only through limited tours, was described by his transition team as a reflection of his commitment to working New Yorkers who keep the city running.
At 34 years old, Mamdani becomes New York City’s youngest mayor in decades and its first Muslim mayor. A former state lawmaker and self-described democratic socialist, he ran a campaign centered on affordability, promising a rent freeze, free buses, and expanded childcare. His platform resonated strongly with voters, generating a record turnout of more than 2 million people. Mamdani won roughly 50 percent of the vote, finishing nearly 10 points ahead of independent Andrew Cuomo and far ahead of Republican Curtis Sliwa.
Attorney General Letitia James, one of Mamdani’s earliest and most prominent supporters, played a notable role in the inauguration. Political analysts say her presence underscored Mamdani’s independence from President Donald Trump, whom Mamdani has openly criticized on issues such as immigration. James herself has been a high-profile adversary of Trump, having led investigations into his business practices in New York.
Mamdani’s public inauguration later in the day includes a ceremony on the steps of City Hall, with music and speeches attended by thousands and livestreamed to viewers across the city. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are among the featured speakers. After the celebrations, Mamdani will move from his rent-stabilized Astoria apartment to Gracie Mansion, beginning what supporters hope will be a transformative new era for New York City.
