New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s Quran Swearing-In Sparks National Debate Over American Values

By Charlie McCarthy | Thursday, January 1, 2026

Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama ignited a fresh political firestorm Wednesday morning after posting a warning on social media that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s use of the Quran at his swearing-in showed “the enemy is inside the gates.”

The senator shared a screenshot of an article detailing Mamdani’s decision to place his hand on Islam’s sacred text while taking the oath of office. Tuberville condemned the move, calling it a sign that the nation’s “enemy” had penetrated institutions rooted in traditional American values.

The comments came as Mamdani prepared to become New York City’s first Muslim mayor—a event celebrated by progressive activists and major media outlets but viewed with suspicion by many conservatives already alarmed by his far-left platform.

Shortly after midnight on Thursday, New York Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath of office to Mamdani. The article reported that Mamdani planned to use multiple Qurans for his private and public ceremonies, including one belonging to his grandfather and another once owned by renowned Black historian Arturo Schomburg, lent by the New York Public Library.

Supporters described the moment as a reflection of the city’s diversity and a “turning point” for Muslim representation in civic life. Critics, however, argued that the symbolism underscores how radically New York politics has shifted away from America’s Judeo-Christian roots.

While elected officials are not legally required to swear an oath on any religious text, the vast majority of American leaders traditionally use a Bible. Conservatives have framed the issue as public signaling, particularly when coupled with Mamdani’s proposals for citywide rent freezes, free child care, and free public transportation. Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., warned that such policies mirror socialism and have “never worked anywhere,” noting millions fled communist regimes seeking economic freedom in the United States.

International critics also weighed in. Dutch populist leader Geert Wilders posted that Mamdani’s oath should be considered invalid, warning the U.S. is “not Islamic” and urging Americans to “wake up.”

Despite the uproar, Mamdani appeared unmoved. In an X post ahead of the swearing-in, he thanked supporters for backing what he called a “fight for working people.” Sen. Bernie Sanders, who will swear in Mamdani again at a public inauguration on Thursday afternoon, praised him for challenging both parties’ establishments.

Tuberville’s warning, though focused on ceremonial practice, addresses a deeper concern: whether New York City is becoming a national symbol of cultural and political transformation that could spread well beyond its borders.