NEW YORK January 1, 2026 – In a momentous event marking a new era for the nation’s largest city, Zohran Kwame Mamdani was officially sworn in as the 110th Mayor of New York City on January 1, 2026. The progressive Democratic Socialist, previously a member of the New York State Assembly representing Queens’ District 36, took the oath of office administered by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime mentor and icon of the American left.
The inauguration, broadcast live by the MeidasTouch Network, unfolded amid a chilly winter backdrop, with attendees bundled in coats and hats against the January cold. Mamdani, 34, delivered an emotional address thanking key figures who shaped his political journey. “Thank you to the two titans who, as an assembly member, I’ve had the privilege of being represented by in Congress: Nydia Velázquez and our incredible opening speaker, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,” Mamdani said, acknowledging the Puerto Rican congresswoman and the Bronx-Queens representative for paving the way. “You have paved the way for this moment.”
Turning to Sanders, Mamdani expressed deep gratitude: “Thank you to the man whose leadership I seek most to emulate, who I am so grateful to be sworn in by today—Senator Bernie Sanders.” The 84-year-old senator, known for his advocacy on issues like income inequality and healthcare reform, stood as a symbolic bridge between generations of progressive activism. Sanders’ involvement underscored Mamdani’s commitment to policies rooted in social justice, including affordable housing, police reform, and climate action—priorities that defined his successful 2025 mayoral campaign.
The ceremony drew a star-studded crowd, reflecting Mamdani’s broad appeal among progressive and cultural figures. Notable attendees included civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton and actress Whoopi Goldberg, both seen smiling and applauding from the audience. The event also featured a diverse array of New Yorkers, from community organizers to labor leaders, symbolizing Mamdani’s grassroots support base.
Mamdani’s path to City Hall was groundbreaking. Born to Ugandan-Indian immigrant parents, he becomes the first South Asian and first Muslim mayor of New York City. His 2025 election victory came after a heated Democratic primary where he positioned himself as a bold alternative to establishment candidates, emphasizing divestment from fossil fuels, expanded public transit, and tenant protections amid the city’s ongoing housing crisis. He defeated Republican challenger Vito Fossella in the general election, riding a wave of voter turnout in working-class neighborhoods.
In his speech, Mamdani outlined ambitious plans for his administration, promising to “build a New York for the many, not the few.” Key initiatives include reforming the NYPD’s budget to fund social services, accelerating green infrastructure projects to combat climate change, and addressing the migrant influx with humane integration programs. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential fiscal challenges, with some business leaders wary of his progressive tax proposals.
As Mamdani assumes office, New York faces pressing issues: recovering from post-pandemic economic strains, managing public safety amid fluctuating crime rates, and navigating federal relations under the current administration. His inauguration signals a shift toward more radical reforms, potentially setting the stage for national debates on urban policy.
The event’s clip, shared widely on social media, has already garnered thousands of views, with supporters hailing it as a triumph for progressive values. Mamdani’s term begins immediately, with his first City Council meeting scheduled for next week.
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