"Sohran Mamdani," a democratic socialist politician, made history by being sworn in as New York City's new mayor amid New Year's celebrations at a historic subway station. He promoted policies to "freeze rent and provide free bus rides" and declared his independence from the federal government, watched by over 8 million New Yorkers.
At the first minute of 1 January 2026, Sohran Mamdani officially took the oath as mayor of New York City. He chose the symbolic location of the long-closed "City Hall" subway station, which has been shut for over half a century, reflecting his dedication to the working-class people who drive the city daily.
By law, the mayor's term begins on 1 January 2026, prompting a small oath-taking ceremony just after midnight. A formal event will follow on the steps of New York City Hall with music and speeches for about 4,000 attendees, also broadcast live along Broadway under the title "Oath to the New Era."
Mamdani, a 34-year-old former New York State Assembly member born in Uganda, became New York's first Muslim mayor. He won decisively with over 2 million votes, roughly 50%, defeating opponents Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa by a wide margin.
His popular policies address the cost of living, including rent freezes, free bus service, and free childcare benefits. These policies have inspired hope among the working class while causing concern among Wall Street bankers.
At the oath ceremony, New York State Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath. Analysts view this as a clear signal of local unity and independence from President Donald Trump's federal government, as James has been a political adversary who rigorously investigated Trump's businesses.
Mamdani also received significant support from progressive figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders, his inspiration, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who will join the celebration ceremony this afternoon.
Mamdani's team calls this inauguration "Oath to the New Era." He raised $2.6 million from nearly 30,000 donors for the occasion, marking the highest fundraising total in the history of New York City mayoral inaugurations this century.
After the ceremony, Mamdani will move from his one-bedroom apartment in Astoria, Queens, to the "Gracie Mansion," the official luxurious mayoral residence on Manhattan's Upper East Side, to begin his leadership of the largest city in the United States.
/sourceReuters