Ocasio-Cortez Says New ‘Era’ Here?
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez praised what she described as a “new era” for New York City on Thursday, celebrating the inauguration of newly elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a progressive ally whose victory has sparked national debate.
Speaking at Mamdani’s public swearing-in ceremony on New Year’s Day, Ocasio-Cortez portrayed the election as a political shift toward expanded government programs and democratic socialist policies, framing the outcome as a rejection of traditional leadership.
Mamdani officially assumed office earlier in the day during a private oath ceremony held at a closed subway site near City Hall. His public inauguration was scheduled to be administered by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime advocate of government-led economic restructuring.
A former New York State Assembly member, Mamdani defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in November’s election. His win made history, as he became the first Muslim to be elected mayor of America’s largest city.
During her remarks, Ocasio-Cortez argued that voters chose Mamdani in response to what she called “extraordinary and untenable times,” praising his commitment to sweeping policy changes aimed at housing, childcare, and public transportation.
She highlighted proposals such as universal childcare, rent controls, expanded public housing, and large-scale transit investment—policies supporters say would benefit working-class residents.
However, critics warn those same proposals could worsen New York City’s financial outlook, drive higher taxes, and accelerate the ongoing loss of businesses and middle-class families already struggling with rising crime, high living costs, and budget shortfalls.
New York has lost hundreds of thousands of residents in recent years, and skeptics argue that doubling down on progressive economic policies may deepen the city’s challenges rather than reverse them.
As Mayor Mamdani begins his term, supporters are optimistic about bold change, while critics say results—not rhetoric—will determine whether New York’s new leadership can restore safety, affordability, and economic stability to the city.
