A year ago, Zohran Mamdani was a backbench state assemblyman who had just launched a bid for New York City mayor that many saw as a long shot because of his unabashed left-wing politics. The oath was administered by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who, like Mamdani, is a democratic socialist and is seen as a grandfather for the modern American left. Having promised to make the city more affordable for working-class communities, Mamdani is entering office with high expectations on his shoulders. But in his inaugural speech, Mamdani reaffirmed he remains committed to all of his agenda items, including taxing millionaires at a higher rate, and vowed not to water down his messaging or promises. Despite the tensions, Mamdani offered Adams thanks during his inaugural speech, drawing boos from the crowd.

Source: Daily Sun January 02, 2026 18:28 UTC