Zohran Mamdani was inaugurated as New York City’s 112th mayor on Thursday, pledging to “govern expansively and audaciously.”
Mamdani, 34, gave his first speech as mayor outside City Hall in front of a crowd of around 400 supporters.
“I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist,” he said.
The public event comes after he was sworn in by state Attorney General Letitia James in a private ceremony at a disused subway station near City Hall just after midnight on New Year’s Day.
He thanked his supporters for electing him mayor of the nation’s biggest city, and thanked activists and labor leaders for attending the event.
The new mayor repeated his oath of office alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).
In his remarks, Sanders commended what he called “grassroots democracy” and lauded Mamdani’s rise to office.
“I’m here mostly to thank the people of New York City,” Sanders told the crowd. “At a time in our country’s history when we are seeing too much hatred, too much divisiveness, and too much injustice, thank you for electing Zohran Mamdani as your mayor.”
His leadership marks a “new era” for the city, Ocasio-Cortez told supporters during an opening speech.
“Importantly, I also ask that we consider today an inauguration for each one of us, too, the nearly 8.5 million New Yorkers who make up the greatest city on earth,” she said. “Because it is the people of New York City who have chosen historic, ambitious leadership in response to untenable and unprecedented times.”
Mamdani has made history as the city’s first Muslim mayor, the first of South Asian descent, and the first to be born in Africa.
The former Queens assemblyman campaigned heavily on bringing down the cost of living in New York City.
During the ceremony, Mamdani also acknowledged that some New Yorkers may still be hesitant about his policies and leadership.
“While only action can change minds, I promise you this: If you are a New Yorker, I am your mayor,” Mamdani told those gathered.
Mamdani also faces skepticism and opposition from some members of the city’s Jewish community over his criticisms of Israel’s government.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
