NEW YORK (AP) — Marking his first 100 days as New York City’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani gathered supporters Sunday to highlight his administration’s early achievements while unveiling ambitious plans that include launching municipal grocery stores across the city.
Speaking to an enthusiastic audience just days after hitting the milestone, Mamdani reflected on his inaugural promise that “City Hall would hold a singular purpose, to make this city belong to more of its people than it did the day before.”
“For 102 days, we have endeavored to do exactly that,” he said.
Following a review of his administration’s initial successes, the mayor outlined several upcoming initiatives, beginning with progress on a signature campaign commitment: establishing government-operated grocery stores. According to Mamdani, the first location will launch next year, with additional stores planned for each borough before his four-year term concludes.
“At our stores, eggs will be cheaper. Bread will be cheaper. Grocery shopping will no longer be an unsolvable equation,” said Mamdani, a Democrat.
The mayor also revealed plans to broaden the city’s covered waste container program. “Say goodbye to black bags and say hello to the bins,” he declared, committing to implement the system citywide before 2031 ends.
Mamdani also renewed his campaign commitment to improve bus service while eliminating fares, announcing immediate steps to accelerate transit along certain routes. However, the pathway to removing bus costs remains uncertain.
“Tonight, we’re delivering the fast, and we’re excited to keep working with Albany to deliver the free,” he stated, acknowledging the governor and state Legislature’s influence over portions of his agenda.
Prior to the mayor’s remarks, attendees heard from a transportation department employee discussing Mamdani’s pothole repair initiative, a tenant advocate praising his renter-focused policies, and a parent supporting his childcare expansion efforts.
“No longer will city government be afraid of its own shadow,” Mamdani declared upon taking the stage. “If anyone should be afraid it is those who take advantage of working people.”
The 34-year-old mayor assumed office in January following a campaign focused on improving affordability throughout New York City, with his platform emphasizing the use of government resources to support the city’s financially struggling working population.
