In a historic moment for New York City, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the city's new mayor in the early hours of New Year's Day 2026.
A Midnight Oath in a Hidden Landmark
The private ceremony took place shortly after midnight in the abandoned beaux-arts subway station under City Hall. The democratic socialist, aged 34, took the oath of office administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James. He was surrounded by his wife, Rama Duwaji, and immediate family, including his mother, film-maker Mira Nair, and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, a professor of African studies at Columbia University.
In a deeply personal gesture, Mamdani was sworn in using his grandfather's Qur'an, cementing his place in history as New York City's first ever Muslim mayor. Addressing the intimate gathering, Mamdani stated, "This is truly the honor and the privilege of a lifetime." He highlighted the symbolic choice of venue, noting the old City Hall station was "a testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health, the legacy of our city."
Public Celebration and Progressive Backing
The midnight event sets the stage for a larger public inauguration scheduled for 1pm ET at City Hall. This public ceremony will see the new mayor introduced by high-profile progressive allies, including Bronx Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The oath will be administered once more, this time by Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, underscoring the national progressive movement's support for the new city leader.
A New Chapter for New York
Mamdani's ascent marks a significant shift in the political landscape of one of the world's most prominent cities. His election and inauguration represent milestones for both democratic socialist politics and religious representation in American civic leadership. The dual ceremonies, one intimate and symbolic, the other public and celebratory, frame the beginning of a highly anticipated term. Mamdani concluded his midnight remarks by telling attendees, "I cannot wait to see everyone tomorrow as we begin our term."
