Zohran Mamdani Takes Oath As Mayor Using Favorite Harry Potter Book Instead Of The Bible

New York City welcomed its new mayor when Zohran Mamdani placed his hand on a copy of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets to take the oath of office.

The democratic socialist, who rose from state assemblyman to leader of the nation's largest city after a campaign focused on affordable housing, free public transit, and municipal services, chose the children's fantasy novel over the Bible in a ceremony joined by Senator Bernie Sanders.

Mamdani, whose mother is acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair, has long connections to the Harry Potter series. As a teenager, he advised her to turn down an offer to direct one of the films, insisting many directors could handle the wizarding world, but only she could make her own project.

"This is my favorite book in the series," Mamdani said after the oath. "The Chamber of Secrets captures everything I love about the story, from uncovering hidden threats to challenging prejudice and corruption in established institutions."

Sanders, who participated in the ceremonial portion of the event, nodded in approval. "Zohran draws from narratives of young people standing against powerful forces," Sanders said.

"This volume highlights resistance to bigotry and the courage needed to expose dangers lurking beneath the surface."

The new mayor expanded on the parallels he sees. He pointed to the book's exploration of blood purity and discrimination, noting how those themes mirror real-world struggles against division and inequality. Mamdani also highlighted the role of friendship and collective action in overcoming seemingly impossible odds.

He added that the basilisk hidden in the school's pipes represents systemic issues ignored until they endanger everyone. The young heroes' determination to confront it, even when adults fail to act, inspires his approach to governing.

Mamdani's platform includes rent freezes for stabilized units, expanding fare-free buses, and opening city-run grocery stores to lower food costs. He campaigned as an unapologetic democratic socialist, promising to prioritize working-class needs over corporate interests.

The ceremony took place amid celebrations marking the transition. Mamdani succeeds the previous administration with pledges to make the city more equitable and accessible.

He reiterated his commitment to applying the book's lessons practically. Confronting entrenched problems requires the same boldness Harry and his friends showed in the face of denial from authority figures.

Sanders described the choice of text as fitting for a leader inspired by stories of ordinary people challenging extraordinary injustice.

Mamdani closed by noting the novel's message that fear of difference poisons society. He vowed to build a city where no one is left in the shadows.

The inauguration drew attention for its break from tradition. Yet the new mayor framed it as a reflection of personal values shaped by literature that taught millions about morality and resilience.

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