Zohran Mamdani Takes Oath on Quran, Becomes NYC’s 111th Mayor

Zohran Mamdani is the new mayor of the city of New York and the first Muslim mayor in the history of the city. Mamdani starts his term in office as a sworn-in mayor with a focus on diversity and affordability as well as serving the citizens, a focus that came worldwide attention since he was sworn in on the Quran at a historic subway station in the City Hall.

Zohran Mamdani Sworn In as New York City Mayor

On January 1, 2026, Zohran Mamdani officially became New York City’s 111th mayor. Zohran Mamdani took an oath on the Quran in a private ceremony beneath City Hall. The event was attended by family, officials, and New York Attorney General Letitia James, who administered the oath.

Mamdani’s swearing‑in marks several historic firsts. He is the first Muslim mayor, first South Asian mayor, and first African-born leader of New York City. At 34, he is also among the city’s youngest mayors.

For the Zohran Mamdani oath, he placed his hand on two Qurans: one belonging to his grandfather and a rare 18th- or 19th-century Quran from the Schomburg Center. A third family Quran is planned for use at his public ceremony later in the day. These Qurans symbolize New York’s cultural and religious diversity.

Mamdani won the November 2025 election with 50.78% of the vote, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who secured 41.6%. His campaign focused on affordability, transit, and inclusive governance. The Zohran Mamdani sworn in ceremony drew attention internationally for its symbolic use of the Quran.

A public inauguration is scheduled later at City Hall. Prominent leaders including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders are expected to attend. Mamdani called his swearing-in a “once-in-a-lifetime honor” and emphasized service for all residents.