UPDATE: Zohran Mamdani has officially taken office as New York City’s 112th mayor, marking a historic moment as the first Muslim and the first person of South Asian descent to lead the city. The 34-year-old democratic socialist was sworn in at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2026, in a ceremony held at the old City Hall subway station, approximately three miles from the bustling Times Square.
Mamdani’s inauguration comes on the heels of a campaign focused on bold economic reforms aimed at making New York more affordable. The intimate ceremony featured New York State Attorney General Letitia James administering the oath of office. Mamdani held his left hand on a historic Qur’an lent from the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, symbolizing the significance of this moment for the city.
In a poignant farewell, former Mayor Eric Adams concluded his four-year tenure just before Mamdani’s ascension, marking the transition with a final act at 11:59 p.m. on December 31, when he initiated the Times Square New Year’s ball drop. This symbolic gesture underscored the close of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for New York City.
Mamdani is set to participate in a formal inauguration ceremony today at 1 p.m. on the steps of City Hall, where he will take the oath again, this time administered by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. Thousands are expected to gather for the celebration, which will also see the inauguration of Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and City Comptroller Mark Levine.
This historic moment is not only significant for Mamdani but also reflects a broader shift in the political landscape of New York City. His leadership promises to bring new energy and focus to urgent issues facing residents, particularly around affordability and economic justice.
As the day unfolds, all eyes will be on Mamdani and his administration as they set the tone for the coming years. The community is buzzing with anticipation and support, making it clear that they are ready for change.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
