Bernie Sanders Swears In NYC's New Socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani: The Mittens Mystery and Progressive Agenda Unpacked

New York City's political landscape saw a significant shift on Thursday as Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) administered the ceremonial oath of office to incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani outside City Hall. The event not only marked the inauguration of a self-proclaimed "democratic socialist" leader but also drew attention for a notable absence: Sen. Sanders' now-iconic, handmade mittens that catapulted him to viral fame during the 2021 presidential inauguration.

The Mittens Moment: A Viral Sensation's Absence

For many, the image of Sen. Sanders, bundled in a winter coat and unique brown chevron mittens, sitting cross-legged at President Biden's 2021 inauguration, became an enduring symbol of that historic day. The photo rapidly spread across social media, spawning countless memes, merchandise, and even inspiring significant fundraising efforts for Vermont charities, spearheaded by the mittens' creator, schoolteacher Jen Ellis, who reportedly raised around $2 million.

However, at Mayor Mamdani's inauguration, the Vermont senator opted for a more conventional winter ensemble. Sporting standard winter gloves, a blue beanie, and a puffy green coat, Sanders' attire marked a visual departure from the widely recognized image that made him a global pop culture figure. Despite the change in handwear, Sanders was once again observed sitting patiently, notably during a performance of the socialist anthem "Bread and Roses" by Lucy Dacus, echoing his familiar posture from the 2021 event.

Mamdani's Oath: A New Era of "Democratic Socialism" in NYC

The main focus of the day, however, was Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who wasted no time in articulating his political identity and vision for New York City. Describing himself as a "democratic socialist" in his inaugural address, Mamdani boldly declared to his supporters, "I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist."

His inaugural pledges highlighted a progressive agenda aimed at fundamentally reshaping urban policy. Key proposals include freezing rents for stabilized apartments, delivering universal childcare, making bus transportation free across the city, and increasing taxes on wealthy New Yorkers. Mamdani promised that City Hall would "govern expansively and audaciously" under his leadership, signaling a clear departure from traditional political approaches.

Sanders' Endorsement: Challenging the Establishment

Before formally administering the oath of office shortly after 2:40 p.m., Sen. Sanders delivered a lengthy and impassioned address, showering praise on Mamdani's campaign and its ambitious agenda. Sanders framed Mamdani's election as a powerful rejection of entrenched political establishments, both Democratic and Republican.

"Volunteers took on the Democratic establishment, the Republican establishment, the president of the United States and some enormously wealthy oligarchs," Sanders told the enthusiastic crowd. He also vehemently defended policies that Mamdani's opponents had often derided as "radical" or "communistic." Sanders argued that proposals such as affordable housing, free childcare, free bus transportation, and increased taxation on the wealthy were "not radical" but rather "necessary in the richest country in the history of the world."

The event drew a notable gathering of progressive figures, including New York Attorney General Letitia James and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), alongside Sen. Sanders and his wife, Jane Sanders, underscoring the growing influence of the democratic socialist movement within NYC politics.

As chants of "Zohran" filled City Hall, the inauguration of Mayor Mamdani, with the symbolic presence and endorsement of Sen. Bernie Sanders, heralded a new chapter for New York City, one promising bold progressive policies and a continued challenge to conventional political narratives.