Socialist theory, meet reality.
Zohran Mamdani, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), was sworn in as New York City mayor Thursday. The event attracted about 10,000 supporters, according to the New York Post. Fans withstood freezing temperatures in anticipation of an “Inauguration for a New Era Block Party,” as advertised by Mamdani’s staff, and while Mamdani’s election certainly marked a new era for the city, the inauguration was far from a party. (RELATED: Editor Daily Rundown: Democrat Screws Up Zohran Mamdani’s Name While Swearing Him In)
Supporters were “crammed into several barricaded pens without access to bathrooms or any food concession stands,” according to the New York Post. The outlet spoke to disgruntled attendees, including 30-year-old Danny Mahabir, who complained that it was “definitely not a block party.” Mahabir added that he wore three layers of clothes to stay warm and was “just stuck behind the barricades watching it on TV.”
MAYOR MAMDANI: “We will replace the frigidity of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism.” pic.twitter.com/3LIOVHdKSy
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 1, 2026
“It’s not exactly what I was expecting,” 30-year-old Shane Turner told the New York Post. “I was expecting food and music.”
“I could’ve watched this from home,” said another woman.
“The police officers have not been informed about anything, they don’t know which entrance or where anything is,” yet another woman told the New York Post. “I’m really, really unhappy.”
Whoops. You get what you vote for. A self-avowed socialist kicking off his mayoral term by leaving the masses disillusioned, cold, and hungry is almost too on the nose.
In fairness, Mamdani’s inauguration website notes that there will be no portable public restrooms available during the event and no food for sale. They suggest: “Feel free to bring your own snacks, and some to share!” (RELATED: FLASHBACK: Keffiyeh-Clad Zohran Mamdani Yearned For More Feminist Remakes Of Beloved Action Movies In Resurfaced Clip)
We’re at the beautiful and newly refurbished Brooklyn Paramount for Zohran Mamdani’s election night party. Cash bar with the venue’s standard fare and high prices. Just journalists so far – doors open for supporters at 9 pm. pic.twitter.com/RZlFquKHcI
— Jeff Coltin (@JCColtin) November 5, 2025
After winning the mayoral election in November, Mamdani did throw a real party — where beer was reportedly available for purchase for a mere $13.
But I’m sure those free, fast, safe bus rides will be coming along any day now.
Follow Natalie Sandoval on X: @NatSandovalDC