During his inaugural speech on Thursday, Mamdani emphasized his key campaign pledges, which include implementing universal childcare, making housing more affordable, and offering free bus services.

“We will exemplify what New Yorkers excel at: setting a global standard,” he declared.

The audience, numbering in the thousands, erupted in applause when Sanders urged the nation’s wealthiest individuals to contribute more in taxes, chanting “tax the rich” in unison.

Demonstrating his Islamic faith, he made history by using the Quran, the sacred text of Islam, during his swearing-in ceremony, marking a first for a mayor of New York City.

Formerly a state legislator, Mamdani has committed to initiatives like rent freezes, complimentary buses, and childcare services. His campaign has focused on these affordability measures, which many view as a strategic direction for the Democratic Party nationwide as the November midterm elections approach.

Republicans criticise Mamdani

Mamdani, a former state politician, promised a freeze on rents and free buses and childcare, building a campaign around affordability issues that some have seen as a path forward for the Democratic Party around the country ahead of November midterm elections.

New York governor Kathy Hochul has said she opposes raising personal income taxes but is considering raising corporate taxes to pay for a potential budget shortfall amid federal cuts.

Inauguration of a new era

Mamdani raised US$2.6 million ($3.9 million) for the transition and celebrations from nearly 30,000 contributors, more than other mayors on record this century, both in total and in single donations, according to official campaign data that discloses inaugural expenses starting with Michael Bloomberg’s first term in 2001.