3:05 Zohran Mamdani, a candidate for mayor in New York City, during an election night gathering in Brooklyn, New York, on Nov. 4, 2025. Adam Gray/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Zohran Mamdani, a state assemblyman and democratic socialist who gained national prominence during the 2025 New York City mayoral election, will be inaugurated on New Year’s Day 2026. This ceremony will mark a historic moment for the nation’s largest city, as Mamdani becomes its first Muslim mayor and the first mayor of South Asian heritage.
“I believe this day holds significant importance for New Yorkers and for the entire United States. The Mamdani inauguration on Jan. 1 is expected to draw a worldwide audience,” said Mitchell Moss, a professor of urban policy at New York University, to ABC News.
Zohran Mamdani, a candidate for mayor in New York City, during an election night event in Brooklyn, New York, on Nov. 4, 2025. Adam Gray/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Mamdani will be officially sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James at midnight on Thursday during a private ceremony. This event will be held in the now-closed original City Hall subway station, renowned for its elaborate arches and tiled ceiling.
According to the New York Public Library, Mamdani will take the oath on a centuries-old Qur’an from its collection, as stated by the library on Wednesday.
Laura Tamman, a political science professor at Pace University, noted the historical and practical importance of that venue.
It is “recognizing the city’s history,” she remarked. “Furthermore, it is, to be honest, a secure location…given the divisive nature of the campaign.”
Mamdani confronted threats of death and car bombs throughout his campaign, which included threats aimed at his Muslim identity.
“When someone is making history like this, I’m sure there are heightened security concerns compared to, for instance, [former Mayor] Bill de Blasio’s swearing-in,” Tamman commented.
While no longer in use, the City Hall station has long been regarded as the most beautiful subway station in New York City. STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images
During his public inauguration ceremony, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on the steps of New York City Hall on Thursday, Mamdani will be sworn in by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, a Brooklyn-born independent and fellow democratic socialist who has been a supportive ally.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a fellow democratic socialist representing parts of the Bronx, will also make remarks.
Moss remarked that Sanders’ involvement in the inauguration sends a message that “this is a national event…so I believe that [Mamdani is] signaling his ideological roots and connection to national politics.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders approaches the Senate Chamber on Dec. 11, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Heather Diehl/Getty Images
Tamman noted that “Ocasio-Cortez was, much like [Mamdani], underestimated by the Democratic establishment and has emerged as a significant leader within the party.”
Mamdani’s transition team stated that Cornelius Eady, a renowned poet and National Book Award finalist, will present a new poem at Mamdani’s inauguration, which will
Sourse: abcnews.go.com