Zohran Mamdani Makes History as First Muslim Mayor of New York City, Takes Oath on Quran
In an unprecedented moment in New York City's history, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the city's first Muslim and South Asian mayor on January 1, 2026. The 34-year-old democratic socialist took his oath using his grandfather's Quran and a 200-year-old copy of the Quran, marking the first time a New York City mayor has used the Islamic holy book for the swearing-in ceremony.
A Historic Day in New York
Mamdani, born in Uganda to an Indian father and Iranian mother, is also the first African-born person of Indian descent to hold the office. His swearing-in ceremony was held at Old City Hall Station, a decommissioned subway station symbolic of New York City's history. New York Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath at the private midnight ceremony.
Later in the day, a public inauguration was held outside City Hall, attended by an estimated 4,000 people, including prominent progressive figures such as Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The crowd braved freezing temperatures to witness the historic event.
A New Era for New York City
In his inaugural address, Mamdani declared the start of a new era
for New York City. I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist,
he said. His speech, which lasted almost 25 minutes, reflected his progressive ideology and ambition to bring sweeping changes to the city.
Mamdani's campaign confirmed that he used two family Qurans and a third belonging to Arturo Schomburg, a Puerto Rican activist and writer who laid the groundwork for Harlem’s Schomburg Center for research in Black culture. This move was seen as a nod to New York City's diverse history and the intersectionality of Mamdani's own identity.
Reactions and Implications
Mamdani's inauguration was met with a mix of celebration and concern. Thousands of supporters gathered at City Hall, many wearing blue and yellow Zohran beanie hats and clutching hand warmers. These scenes of jubilation were a testament to the new mayor's appeal among young, progressive voters.
However, his identification as a democratic socialist and his promise to govern expansively and audaciously
have also raised concerns among conservative circles. Fox News highlighted the 'FULL-BLOWN BATTLE' brewing within the Democratic Party as more candidates in the mold of Mamdani rise in key races.
Looking Forward
As Mamdani steps into his new role, the world watches with keen interest. His election and subsequent inauguration mark a significant shift in the political landscape of New York City. As he navigates his term amidst diverse expectations and challenges, his leadership will ultimately determine if this new era
lives up to its promise.