Zahran Mamdani, Mayor of New York: Details of the swearing-in and meeting with Trump
In a historic event that marks a new chapter in American political life, Democrat Zahran Mamdani officially assumed office as mayor of New York City, becoming the first Muslim mayor to lead the largest city in the United States. This inauguration culminated a campaign focused on progressive and left-leaning issues, challenging the conservative policies of US President Donald Trump.
Extraordinary ceremony in the heart of Manhattan
The 34-year-old Mamdani opted to forgo the usual protocols of city halls, choosing instead to take the oath of office in the deserted Old City Hall subway station in Manhattan. The ceremony took place shortly after midnight, coinciding with the New Year's celebrations of hundreds of thousands in nearby Times Square.
The young mayor justified his choice of this station, distinguished by its unique architecture and stained-glass windows dating back to 1904, by saying it symbolizes “a city that dared to be beautiful, and at the same time capable of bringing about radical change in the lives of the working class.” This choice reflects Mamdani’s commitment to improving infrastructure and public transportation, issues that were central to his election platform.
The symbolism of the oath and cultural history
In a deeply symbolic scene, Mamdani took the oath of office, placing his hand on a historic copy of the Quran, held by his wife, the Syrian-born artist Rama Dauji. This copy belonged to the pioneering writer and historian Arturo Schomberg , a leading figure in the Harlem Renaissance who died in 1938. Schomberg is considered a symbol of documenting Black American history, making Mamdani's use of his Quran a powerful message about the intersection of cultures and the deep roots of the diverse components of New York society.
Political messages and a potential confrontation
The swearing-in ceremony was presided over by New York Attorney General Letitia James , known for her fierce legal battles against President Donald Trump, including a 2024 conviction for fraud. James's presence at the event reinforces the Mamdani administration's stance of opposition to White House policies, particularly on immigration and the economy.
Despite their sharp ideological differences and Mamdani's campaign platform as an outspoken opponent of Trump, the first meeting between the two men at the White House surprised observers. The talks were unexpectedly cordial, with the two rivals exchanging pleasantries, raising questions about the future relationship between the city's more liberal mayor and the Republican president, and the potential impact on federal funding for the city and its vital projects.
Mamdani’s rise represents a significant shift in the local political landscape, as New York moves towards adopting more left-leaning policies in addressing the housing and cost-of-living crises, at a time when the national arena is experiencing sharp polarization.
