As New York City’s mayoral torch passes from Eric Adams to Zohran Mamdani, all eyes are on the Big Apple.

Mayor Mamdani is a 34-year-old immigrant from Uganda. At age seven, his family moved to New York, where he would eventually begin his political career. Before being elected as mayor, he served New Yorkers as a housing counselor. His popularity among young voters and his progressive political approach helped propel him into office.

Mamdani is New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor, as well as the first immigrant to hold the office in nearly half a century. At 34, he is the city’s second-youngest mayor, behind Hugh J. Grant, who was elected at age 30.

Mamdani’s inauguration took place on Jan. 1, 2026. A private ceremony was held beneath the City Hall in an abandoned subway station. There, Mamdani became the first New York City mayor to be sworn in on a Quran, which was lent by — and is now displayed at — the New York Public Library. He was sworn in by Attorney General Leticia James, the first woman of color to be elected to the position.

By morning, a public event was hosted on the City Hall’s steps, paired with a live broadcast. Notable political figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez spoke at the event, swearing in the young mayor.

Throughout his inaugural address, Mamdani promised that “No longer will City Hall hesitate to use its power to improve New Yorkers’ lives.” 

For a Mamdani-led New York City, proposed policy priorities include universal child care, a rent freeze and free bus fares. New Yorkers who attended the event responded in one way: with music, cheering and clapping, bringing celebration and determination into the new year.