Mamdani Sworn in As NYC Mayor

Zohran Mamdani, 34, was sworn in as mayor of New York City on Thursday, becoming the city's first Muslim and South Asian mayor and the youngest person to hold the office in more than a century. 

The Details: Mamdani, a self-described Democratic socialist, was sworn in just after midnight and returned later in the day for a public inauguration ceremony where Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT) administered the oath a second time. Shortly after taking office, Mamdani revoked all executive orders issued by former Mayor Eric Adams after Sep. 26, 2024–the date federal authorities announced corruption charges against Adams–saying the orders were "against the interests of working-class people." He didn't specify which policies would be affected. Mamdani also announced plans to issue a new executive order preserving the Office to Combat Antisemitism and announced steps to revive tenant protection efforts, create housing-focused task forces, establish a deputy mayor for economic justice and launch new offices and commissions related to workforce development and after-school programs.

Key Quotes: In his speech, Mamdani said: "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. 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...We will govern without shame and insecurity, making no apology for what we believe. I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as a democratic socialist."

For Context: Mamdani defeated former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent, in last year's mayoral election. His election marked several milestones, including being the city's first mayor to take the oath of office using a Quran.

How the Media Covered It: Outlets on the Right emphasized Mamdani's socialist ideology and his promotion of "collectivism" over "rugged individualism" during his speech. The National Review (Right bias) argued, "The authors of Mamdani's inaugural address appear to genuinely believe true socialism has never been tried." Fox News (Right) cited Republican and Israeli criticism of Mamdani, including accusations that Mamdani was "pouring antisemitic gasoline" through his executive order revocations. Outlets on the Left highlighted milestones of Mamdani's election and his campaign promises. The New York Times (Lean Left) said Mamdani gave a "soaring" inaugural address and highlighted his promises of unity. Washington Post (Lean Left) emphasized the use of the Quran during the ceremony, saying Mamdani's milestones "reflect the longstanding and vibrant Muslim residents" in New York City. Center-rated outlets like Reuters and Fortune highlighted Mamdani's campaign promises, his disagreements with President Trump and noted "trepidation" around his mayorship. Reuters emphasized Mamdani's public support, calling his inauguration "a new era" for New York City.

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