With the start of the new calendar year, Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani formally assumed office as New York City mayor, following a private swearing-in ceremony held shortly after midnight US time. The ceremony took place at the historic, disused City Hall subway station in downtown Manhattan, one of the original stations of the city's subway system, which was closed to regular service in 1945 and is not open to the general public.
The low-key ceremony was held without an audience and attended only by Mamdani's family and a small group of invited guests. The oath of office was administered by New York State Attorney General Letitia James. During the ceremony, Mamdani placed his hand on the Quran, becoming the first Muslim mayor in New York City's history. In brief remarks afterward, he described the moment as "a once-in-a-lifetime honor and privilege."
According to a statement from his office, the decision to hold the private swearing-in at the underground site was meant to underscore the importance of public transportation to the city. The station, which opened in 1904 as the flagship stop of New York's first subway line, is considered a site of major historical and architectural significance, known for its vaulted ceilings, ornate arches and original design. Today, it can only be visited as part of limited guided tours or glimpsed briefly by riders on the No. 6 train.
Shortly after the ceremony, Mamdani announced the appointment of Mike Flynn as commissioner of the city's Department of Transportation. Flynn previously served in senior roles within the department, and the move marked the new mayor's first official appointment since taking office.
The first day on the job
Later in the day, Mamdani is set to undergo a second, public and official swearing-in ceremony at 1 p.m. US time on the steps of New York City Hall. Thousands are expected to attend. The event will feature opening remarks by progressive elected officials, with Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez slated to deliver the introductory address. The public oath of office will be administered by Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders.
Following the formal ceremony, an open public celebration is planned along Broadway in the area known as the "Canyon of Heroes," traditionally used for large-scale civic events. The incoming mayor's office said the event will be open to the public and will include music and performances.
Mamdani, 34, was elected mayor after winning the general election held in November, emerging as one of the most notable surprises of the Democratic primaries in June.
During the campaign, Mamdani expressed clear anti-Israel positions, some of which were viewed by segments of the Jewish community as outright antisemitic. Among other statements, he refused to condemn the phrase "globalizing the intifada," accused Israel of "genocide" in Gaza, and said he would arrest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he set foot in the city. These remarks drew condemnation from Jewish organizations and elected officials.
He now assumes office as the youngest mayor New York City has had in generations, succeeding Eric Adams, who served a single term and was known for maintaining close ties with the Jewish community and with Israel.
