In a ceremony defined by historical significance and unique urban symbolism, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the Mayor of New York City just after midnight on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
The Democrat made history as the first Muslim leader of the nation’s largest city, taking the oath of office in a decommissioned subway station located deep beneath Manhattan.
A Symbolic Subterranean Ceremony
The event took place at the Old City Hall station, one of New York’s original subway stops famous for its architectural arched ceilings. Placing his hand on a Quran, Mamdani was officially sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
In his first address as mayor, Mamdani highlighted the choice of venue as a statement on his governance focus:
“This is truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime,” Mamdani said. He described the historic station as a “testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health and the legacy of our city.”
First Major Appointment
Signaling an immediate focus on infrastructure and mobility, Mamdani utilized his inaugural remarks to announce Mike Flynn as the new Commissioner of the Department of Transportation.
The appointment reinforces the Mayor’s campaign promises to prioritize the city’s transit network as the backbone of its economic and social health.
Public Celebrations and Second Swearing-In
The midnight event served as the official legal commencement of his term, but a broader public celebration is scheduled for later Thursday.
- Public Ceremony: Mamdani will be sworn in again at City Hall.
- Special Guest: U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders is scheduled to administer the second oath.
- The ‘Canyon of Heroes’: The day’s events will culminate in a massive public block party on Broadway, specifically within the iconic “Canyon of Heroes.”
Mayor Mamdani’s rise to City Hall marks a significant shift in the city’s political landscape, bringing a progressive, transit-focused agenda to the forefront of New York’s future.
Source: Al Jazeera
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