ALBANY, NY – New York State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, representing District 36 in Queens, delivered a passionate and progressive inaugural address this week, outlining his priorities for the upcoming legislative session. The two-term Democrat focused on tackling the state's affordable housing crisis, combating climate change, and strengthening tenant protections, promising a renewed commitment to fighting for working-class families in his district and across New York.
Mamdani, who was first elected in 2020, addressed a crowd of supporters, community leaders, and fellow lawmakers. He used the occasion to reiterate his commitment to fighting for policies that address systemic inequalities and build a more equitable future for all New Yorkers.
“We stand at a pivotal moment," Mamdani stated. "The challenges we face – from skyrocketing rents to the existential threat of climate change – demand bold and transformative solutions. We cannot afford to tinker around the edges. We must be willing to challenge the status quo and fight for a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive."
A central theme of Mamdani's speech was the urgent need to address the affordable housing crisis plaguing New York City and the state as a whole. He emphasized the importance of investing in permanently affordable housing, strengthening tenant protections, and ending discriminatory housing practices.
“Housing is a human right, not a commodity,” Mamdani declared, drawing applause from the audience. “We need to build more affordable housing, but we also need to ensure that existing tenants are protected from predatory landlords and unjust evictions. We must pass ‘Good Cause Eviction’ statewide and expand access to legal representation for tenants facing eviction proceedings."
The proposed "Good Cause Eviction" bill would limit landlords' ability to evict tenants without a specific, justifiable reason, such as non-payment of rent or violation of the lease agreement. Supporters argue the bill would provide much-needed stability for renters and prevent arbitrary evictions that disproportionately impact low-income communities.
Climate change also featured prominently in Mamdani’s address. He called for a rapid transition to a green economy, emphasizing the need for investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and public transportation. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the transition to a green economy benefits all New Yorkers, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.
“The climate crisis is not just an environmental issue; it is a social justice issue,” Mamdani asserted. “We must ensure that the transition to a green economy creates good-paying jobs and that the benefits of clean energy are shared by all communities, not just the wealthy."
Mamdani further championed legislation aimed at divesting public funds from fossil fuels and investing in sustainable infrastructure projects. He also advocated for policies that would hold polluters accountable for the damage they cause to the environment and public health.
Beyond housing and climate change, Mamdani touched on a range of other issues, including healthcare access, education funding, and criminal justice reform. He pledged to continue working with community organizations and fellow lawmakers to advance policies that promote economic justice and social equity.
“We are building a movement for change,” Mamdani concluded. “A movement that is rooted in the values of justice, equality, and solidarity. Together, we can create a New York that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and powerful."
Mamdani's speech signals a continuation of his progressive agenda in the New York State Assembly. While his proposals are likely to face opposition from more conservative lawmakers and powerful lobbying groups, his passionate advocacy and commitment to working-class families have earned him a strong base of support in his district and beyond. The upcoming legislative session promises to be a battleground for these key issues, with Mamdani positioned as a leading voice for progressive change in Albany. The effectiveness of his advocacy and the degree to which he can translate his vision into concrete policy outcomes remain to be seen.
