Top responses to Zohran Mamdani’s inaugural address

Democratic New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani drew backlash for his inaugural address, which he delivered from the steps of City Hall on Thursday after being sworn in on a Quran by Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

Mamdani’s speech, which spanned 23 minutes and emphasized the ideals of democratic socialism, drew particular attention for the line, “We will replace the frigidity of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism.”

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

The line quickly went viral on social media, drawing a torrent of responses from users who expressed concern about the political philosophy guiding the 34-year-old democratic socialist, with many worrying he will lead America’s largest city into dark times.

Here is a list of some of the top responses to Mamdani’s address.