By: Dylan Sattler

The new year has ushered in many changes, one of which being the inauguration of the first Muslim Mayor in New York City’s history, Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani was sworn in to his mayorship on Jan. 1, on the steps of City Hall, by Vermont Senator and previous presidential candidate, Bernie Sanders. 

Mamdani was joined by his wife, artist Rama Duwaji, and his parents, Columbia professor Mahmood Mamdani and film director, Mira Nair. Mamdani is the first Mayor of South Asian descent, along with being the first Muslim mayor of New York City. Mamdani was sworn in with the Quran, which is the central religious text of Islam. Mamdani was born in Uganda and was raised there until moving to South Africa when he was five, then finally settling in New York City at the age of seven. 

According to the transcript of Mamdani’s speech by NYC.Gov, Mamdani said in his speech, “Beginning today, we will govern expansively and audaciously. We may not always succeed, but never will we be accused of lacking the courage to try,”  Mamdani declared to the crowd. “To those who insist that the era of big government is over, hear me when I say this: No longer will City Hall hesitate to use its power to improve New Yorkers’ lives.”

According to a Jan 2026 PBS News article by Anthony Izaguirre, one of Mamdani’s main goals for his term as mayor are to increase taxes on the rich, which would reduce income inequality, invest in improvements of infrastructure, and retain middle-class residents. Another one of Mamdani’s goals is for New York City residents to obtain access to affordable or free childcare and bus fares. 

Mamdani’s plan for affordability within the city is designed to increase quality of life, reduce inequality, and improve the public health of the city. According to a Jan. 2026 PBS News article by Anthony Izaguirre, Mamdani and New York Governor Kathy Hochul debuted a new plan for universal child care for New York City parents with two-year olds.

Along with his family and his wife, many other celebrities were there to showcase their support for Mamdani. Musician Lucy Dacus performed at the ceremony, along with Actor Mandy Patinkin, playwright Cole Escola, and Internet star Rachel Griffin-Accurson, also known as Ms. Rachel.

Mamdani’s election is a symbol of change and progression within the United States. Within the first month of his mayorship, he has made promises and changes that will change the city’s trajectory forever.

Caption: Senator Bernie Sanders swears in Zohran Mamdani as the mayor of New York City on Jan 1, along with Rama Duwaji, Mamdani’s wife, holding the Quran. Photo Credit: CBS News