Zohran Mamdani (D), the newly sworn-in Mayor of New York City, committed to leading the city with Democratic Socialist values during his inauguration speech, promising a return to “the era of big government.”
On Thursday morning, Mamdani, 34, took his official oath at City Hall, placing his left hand on the Quran. Later that day, he participated in a ceremonial swearing-in led by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT).
Throughout his campaign, Mamdani was outspoken about his progressive stance, challenging former Governor Andrew Cuomo (D-NY) and Republican Curtis Sliwa, and he promised to maintain those views in office.
“Our mission is to shift City Hall’s mindset from saying no to discovering how,” Mamdani declared. “Our accountability lies with every New Yorker, not with the billionaires or oligarchs attempting to purchase our democracy. We will lead with confidence, unapologetically standing by our beliefs.”
He further emphasized, “I was elected on the platform of a Democratic Socialist, and that’s exactly how I intend to govern.”
Mamdani assured that he would steadfastly adhere to his principles, unafraid of being labeled as radical.
Mamdani said he will not waver on his “principles for fear of being deemed radical.”
At another point in his remarks, he promised the revival of “big government.”
“To those who insist that the era of big government is over, hear me when I say this: no longer will City Hall hesitate to use its power to improve New Yorkers’ lives,” he said.
“For too long, we have turned to the private sector for greatness while accepting mediocrity from those who serve the public. I cannot blame anyone who has come to question the role of government, whose faith in democracy has been eroded by decades of apathy,” he added.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) was also on hand and declared in her remarks that New York City is entering a new era under the far-left Mamdani.
“This ascent marks a new era for New York City, led by a historic new mayor in Zohran Mamdani, guided by his dedication to a working class that makes our beautiful city run,” she said, per the Hill.
