Socialism has a predictable track record: transforming affluent regions into impoverished ones within a generation. It typically begins with grand promises and eventually leads to shortages and long queues for essentials. With New York City’s new mayor, a self-declared Democratic Socialist, the city seems poised to follow this pattern. Zohran Mamdani is stepping into his role with a zeal that might make Bernie Sanders seem conservative by comparison. His inauguration, marked by a block party, appeared to foreshadow a communal lifestyle—complete with a notable absence of food and restroom facilities.

New Yorkers, brace yourselves.

Welcome to a version of New York reminiscent of Soviet times, where political leaders metaphorically consume their constituents. At least, for now, it remains metaphorical.

The New York Post provides further insights into the shortcomings of this inaugural event.

To those like Shane Turner who are surprised, one might ask: “What did you anticipate? The absence of food, drinks, and facilities is exactly what you endorsed with your vote!”

Welcome to Soviet New York, where politicians eat you. Figuratively speaking, of course. For now.

The full NY Post piece has more on the failed block party.

Backers of Mamdani stood outside City Hall during the inauguration without access to bathrooms and with no food concession stands as they crammed into barricade pens during the New Year’s Day festivities.

Revelers watched the inauguration on a series of big television screens as 4,000 invited guests sat in City Hall’s plaza to take the oath of office. 

“It’s not exactly what I was expecting,” said Brooklyn resident Shane Turner, 30. “I was expecting food and music.” 

“I could’ve watched this from home,” a 25-year-old Queens woman added. 

To Shane Turner and her ilk, I could say this: “Why didn’t you expect it? The lack of food, the lack of drink, the lack of toilets? It’s what you voted for!”

This is how socialism always turns out.