Zohran Mamdani rang in the New Year by letting New York City know exactly what kind of time he’s on.

During his New Year’s Day inaugural address, the newly sworn-in mayor made it clear that he isn’t interested in playing it safe or lowering expectations. Speaking to a crowd gathered in the cold, Mamdani laid out a vision centered on bold leadership, accountability, and a government that genuinely serves the people it represents.

Throughout the speech, Mamdani emphasized that he plans to govern without compromising his ideas to make them more palatable to critics. He said he refuses to abandon his principles out of fear of being labeled “radical,” pointing out that what’s truly extreme is a system that allows a small group to thrive while so many New Yorkers struggle to afford housing, food, and other basic necessities.

The moment that really stood out, though, came when Mamdani tapped into New York’s hip-hop DNA. While speaking about affordability and quality of life, he quoted Yonkers rapper Jadakiss, saying New Yorkers deserve to “be outside.” The reference instantly connected with the crowd and drove home his point: life in the city shouldn’t be limited to survival mode. People should be able to live, enjoy their communities, and exist in the city without being priced out.

Mamdani also addressed his political identity head-on, stating that he was elected as a Democratic Socialist and intends to govern as one. He framed his approach as one rooted in fairness and access, arguing that government should meet the same standards of excellence expected from New York’s artists, creatives, and cultural institutions.

The inauguration was stacked with notable figures. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivered the opening remarks, while New York State Attorney General Letitia James presided over the private midnight swearing-in. Senator Bernie Sanders, who administered Mamdani’s public oath of office earlier in the day, was referenced during the speech and sat among the attendees. Governor Kathy Hochul, outgoing Mayor Eric Adams, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and Comptroller-elect Mark Levine were also present.