Taxes on the rich and a rent freeze. Mamdani's plan for New York

In his inaugural speech, the new mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani, recalled the victory of the left and announced that his administration would “prove the country the effectiveness of progressive governments.” He confirmed his loyalty to the ideology of democratic socialism, rejecting the policy of centrist compromises.

As CNN noted, Thursday's speech dashed hopes that Mamdani would move toward the political center. He repeated that he was elected as a democratic socialist and intends to hold office in the same way, sharply criticizing the political establishment for its lack of imagination and its policy of complacencywhich he believes has failed New Yorkers. He declared that he would stick to his principles without fear of being labeled a radical.

Although before taking office, Mamdani showed readiness to make some concessions, including: distancing himself from demands to limit police funding, on Thursday he firmly rejected suggestions to ease the program.

As I wrote this speech, I was told that this was an opportunity to reset expectations, that I should use this opportunity to encourage New Yorkers to demand little and expect even less. I won't do anything like that. The only expectation I want to reset is low expectations, the mayor said.

Taxes on corporations will fund free services

Key points of his agenda include taxing the wealthiest residents and raising corporate tax rates. The funds obtained in this way, which require the consent of the state authorities, are intended to finance universal child care, free bus transportation and a rent freeze for tenants covered by the stabilization program.

– If you're a New Yorker, I'm your mayor. Regardless of whether we agree, I will protect you, I will rejoice with you, I will mourn with you, and I will never hide from you for a second,” Mamdani said.

Working class mayor

In his speech, the mayor repeatedly referred to the working class: taxi drivers, waiters and technical workers, emphasizing the dignity of people who often remain in the shadow.

What is radical is a system that gives so much to a few and denies so many people the basic needs of life, he said, quoting left-wing senator Bernie Sanders.

It was Sanders who took the oath of office from him, praising New York for giving hope to the entire nation.

Just hours after the ceremony, Mamdani traveled to Brooklyn, where he signed the first housing executive orders.

Andrzej Dobrowolski from New York (PAP)

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