Zohran Mamdani will assume office as New York City’s mayor on January 1. He will become the city’s first Muslim mayor, marking a historic transition. Media reports confirm he will take his oath on the holy Quran.
The development has drawn national attention and broad political interest.
Mamdani will replace Eric Adams, whose term ends on December 31, 2025. City officials have already begun preparations for the transition. Meanwhile, security and logistical arrangements are nearing completion.
The inauguration will reflect both tradition and change in city leadership.
Path to City Hall
Mamdani was born in Uganda and later moved to the United States. He entered politics after years of grassroots organizing in New York. Previously, he served as a New York State assemblyman. During that time, he aligned with Democratic Socialist policies.
On November 4, 2025, voters elected Mamdani as mayor. He defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a closely watched contest. Mamdani secured 50.8 percent of the total vote. Cuomo received 41.3 percent, conceding defeat the same evening.
More than 1.1 million voters supported Mamdani across the city. As a result, he achieved a milestone unseen since 1969. No mayoral candidate had crossed one million votes in decades. Therefore, analysts described the victory as politically significant.
Throughout the campaign, Mamdani emphasized affordability and social equity. He promised fare-free buses to ease commuting costs. He also proposed universal childcare to support working families. Additionally, he pledged a rent freeze on regulated apartments.
Inauguration Plans and National Attention
The inauguration will unfold in two distinct phases. First, a midnight ceremony will mark the official transfer of power. New York Attorney General Letitia James will administer the oath. This ceremony will take place shortly after the new year begins.
Later, a public ceremony will follow during the day. Thousands of New Yorkers are expected to attend the event.
At that ceremony, Senator Bernie Sanders will swear in Mamdani. Sanders endorsed Mamdani earlier this year.
When offering his endorsement in June, Sanders praised Mamdani’s vision. He described the campaign as inspirational and people-driven. Sanders also highlighted Mamdani’s focus on economic justice.
Consequently, the endorsement energized progressive voters citywide.
The decision to take the oath on the Quran has symbolic importance. Supporters view it as a reflection of religious freedom. Others see it as a sign of New York’s diversity. City officials emphasized that the practice aligns with constitutional norms.
