In a historic moment for American politics, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the new mayor of New York City in the early hours of New Year's Day 2026. The private ceremony took place at a symbolic location: the abandoned beaux-arts subway station beneath City Hall.
A Midnight Oath in a Hidden Landmark
The 34-year-old democratic socialist took his oath of office shortly after midnight, officially beginning his term. He was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James. The setting, the old City Hall station, was chosen deliberately by Mamdani to highlight his commitment to public transit as a cornerstone of the city's future.
In his brief remarks, the new mayor stated, "This is truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime." He added, "After just having taken my oath to become the mayor of the city of New York, I do so also here in the old city hall subway station – a testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health, the legacy of our city."
A Personal and Political Milestone
The event was deeply personal for Mamdani. He was surrounded by his wife, Rama Duwaji, and members of his immediate family. These included his mother, the film-maker Mira Nair, and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, a renowned professor of African studies at Columbia University.
In a powerful symbolic gesture, Mamdani was sworn into office using his grandfather's Qur'an. This moment underscored his historic achievement as the first Muslim ever to hold the office of mayor in New York City.
From Private Vows to Public Celebration
The intimate midnight ceremony was just the first act in the day's events. A public inauguration was scheduled for 1pm Eastern Time at City Hall. This larger event was set to feature prominent progressive figures introducing and officiating for the new mayor.
Bronx Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was slated to introduce Mamdani to the public. The oath of office for the public ceremony was to be administered by Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, highlighting the new mayor's alignment with the progressive wing of the Democratic party.
Mamdani's rise marks a significant shift in the leadership of one of the world's most prominent cities, blending a bold political ideology with a landmark personal identity.
