Zohran Mamdani officially became mayor of New York City just after midnight Thursday, choosing an unusual and symbolic location for the moment.
The Democrat took the oath of office inside the long-closed City Hall subway station in Manhattan, one of the system’s original stops.
The setting underscored Mamdani’s early message about public transit and the city’s future.
A Historic First for New York City
Mamdani is the first Muslim mayor in the history of the nation’s largest city.
He placed his hand on a Quran as he took the oath, marking a milestone moment for religious representation in New York politics.
“This is truly the honor and the privilege of a lifetime,” Mamdani said in brief remarks after being sworn in.
The oath was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, a close political ally.
New York Attorney General official website
Why the Subway Station Mattered
The ceremony took place at the former City Hall subway station, which opened in 1904 and was later closed to the public.
The station is known for its ornate arches, tiled ceilings, and chandeliers.
Mamdani said the location was intentional.
He called the station “a testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health, and the legacy of our city.”
New York City Department of Transportation
First Appointment Announced Immediately
During his first speech as mayor, Mamdani announced his first major appointment.
He named Mike Flynn as commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation.
The move signaled that transportation policy will be an early focus of his administration.
Transit advocates have closely watched Mamdani’s transition, as New York continues to grapple with aging infrastructure and congestion.
A Symbolic Start to a New Administration
Holding the ceremony just after midnight allowed Mamdani to begin his term the moment his predecessor’s ended.
The late-night swearing-in also echoed past New York traditions, while the location added a modern political message.
Mamdani campaigned heavily on affordability, transit access, and government accountability.
His inauguration blended history, faith, and policy in a single moment.
What Comes Next
Mamdani is expected to begin rolling out additional appointments in the coming days.
His early actions will be closely scrutinized by both supporters and critics as he takes control of City Hall.
For now, his first act as mayor set a clear tone.
New York City’s next chapter began underground, in a place that once carried millions forward.