Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the mayor of New York City just after midnight on Thursday in a historic ceremony held at a decommissioned subway station in Manhattan. The Democrat took the oath of office at the old City Hall subway station, one of the city&rsquo;s earliest transit landmarks known for its ornate architecture.
With his swearing-in, Mamdani became the first Muslim mayor of New York City, the first leader of South Asian origin, and the first mayor of the city to be born in Africa. He took the oath with his hand placed on the Quran, marking a historic moment in the political history of America&rsquo;s largest city.
The unique venue highlighted the significance of public transportation in New York&rsquo;s development and identity. During his first address as mayor, Mamdani emphasised the role of mass transit in shaping the city&rsquo;s economic vitality, public health, and long-term legacy.
At the ceremony, Mamdani also announced Mike Flynn as the new commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation. After concluding the event, he greeted attendees before leaving the station.
Later in the day, Mamdani is scheduled to take the oath again at a large public ceremony at City Hall. The event will be administered by US Senator Bernie Sanders and followed by a public celebration along Broadway&rsquo;s famed &ldquo;Canyon of Heroes.&rdquo;
Mamdani&rsquo;s mayoral campaign focused on tackling the rising cost of living in New York. His key promises included free child care, fare-free buses, and a rent freeze for nearly one million households across the city.
In the coming days, Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji, are set to move from their one-bedroom rent-stabilised apartment into the official mayoral residence in Manhattan.

Historic midnight oath makes him first Muslim mayor of America’s largest city

Zohran Mamdani Takes Oath as New York Mayor Today

Historic midnight oath makes him first Muslim mayor of America’s largest city

January 1, 2026 | 12:44 IST