Zohran Mamdani (AP)
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Day, Zohran Mamdani will officially assume office as the mayor of New York City, marking the start of his term with two separate swearing-in ceremonies.The Democrat’s team has planned a private oath-taking with family at midnight, followed by a public ceremony in the afternoon outside City Hall. The first oath will be held at the former City Hall subway station in Manhattan, one of the city’s original subway stops known for its tiled arches and vaulted ceilings. It will be administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, a political ally and notable foe of former President Donald Trump.Mamdani’s office said the choice of venue reflects his “commitment to the working people who keep our city running every day.”“When Old City Hall Station first opened in 1904 — one of New York’s 28 original subway stations — it was a physical monument to a city that dared to be both beautiful and build great things that would transform working peoples’ lives,” Mamdani said. “That ambition need not be a memory confined only to our past, nor must it be isolated only to the tunnels beneath City Hall: it will be the purpose of the administration fortunate enough to serve New Yorkers from the building above.” Later in the day, Mamdani will take a second oath on the steps of City Hall at 1 pm. The oath will be administered by US Senator Bernie Sanders, one of his political heroes, while US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will deliver the opening remarks.The public swearing-in will be accompanied by a block party along Broadway leading up to City Hall, featuring performances, music and interfaith elements. Mamdani’s office expects thousands of people to attend.According to the mayor’s office, Mamdani’s inaugural committee includes actor John Turturro, playwright Cole Escola, writer Colson Whitehead, as well as advocates, small business owners and campaign workers who have “provided perspective, guidance, and cultural sensibility” for the ceremony.Holding two ceremonies follows a long-standing tradition for incoming New York City mayors. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams held his initial oath at Times Square shortly after the famous ball drop, while his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, took his first oath at home in Brooklyn.The dual-ceremony format allows Mamdani to combine a personal, family-focused moment with a large public celebration to welcome the new administration.
