Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s first Muslim mayor and a self-described socialist, kicked off his term with a speech that’s sparked a firestorm of criticism from prominent figures like Bishop Robert Barron.

Mamdani, sworn in at midnight on New Year’s Day, used his inaugural address to champion replacing individualism with what he calls the “warmth of collectivism,” while also issuing controversial executive orders on housing and revoking prior mayoral directives, drawing sharp rebukes from conservative leaders.

For hardworking taxpayers in New York City, this rhetoric isn’t just talk—it’s a warning of potential financial burdens. Mamdani’s focus on collectivist ideals could translate into policies that increase taxes or impose compliance costs on property owners, especially with his new housing orders targeting landlords.

Criticism Erupts Over Collectivist Vision

Bishop Robert Barron, a respected Catholic leader and founder of “Word on Fire,” didn’t mince words on X, blasting Mamdani’s vision. “For God’s sake, spare me the ‘warmth of collectivism,’” Barron declared, pointing to the historical devastation tied to such ideologies. His critique cuts deep, reminding us of the stakes involved.

Barron didn’t stop there, arguing that collectivism has led to catastrophic outcomes globally. He cited nations like Venezuela and Cuba as examples of socialist failures, warning against romanticizing such systems. From a populist lens, this is a call to protect individual freedoms over untested experiments.

Other conservative heavyweights echoed Barron’s concerns with pointed jabs of their own. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis noted on X that this so-called “warmth” often hides coercion and force, a bitter pill for any freedom-loving American to swallow. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas added that communist rule historically strips away personal rights, a reality New Yorkers might ponder.

Inaugural Address Sparks Immediate Backlash

Mamdani’s exact words in his address were a lightning rod: “We will replace the frigidity of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism.” If that doesn’t send a chill down the spine of anyone who values personal liberty, what will? It’s a bold declaration that’s already galvanized opposition.

The backlash wasn’t just ideological—it’s rooted in history, as Barron and others see it. They argue that Catholic social teaching itself rejects socialism in favor of market economies that respect human dignity. This isn’t mere opinion; it’s a framework many conservatives hold dear.

Meanwhile, Mamdani’s early actions as mayor have only fanned the flames of controversy. Since taking office, he’s issued three housing-focused executive orders and revoked all prior directives from former Mayor Eric Adams. These moves are seen by many on the right as a troubling overreach.

Housing Orders Raise Eyebrows

Let’s break down those housing orders, which are anything but mundane. One revives a tenant protection office to tackle landlord issues, while another sets up a task force to repurpose city-owned land for development by July 1. A third aims to cut red tape in construction permitting, all under Deputy Mayor Lila Joseph’s oversight.

Critics, however, see these as a direct jab at property owners who already face tight margins. From a conservative perspective, this could mean more legal exposure for landlords under the guise of tenant rights. It’s a policy shift that begs for rigorous investigation.

Then there’s the revocation of Adams’ orders, including one that prevented city agencies from boycotting Israel and another that boosted security near religious sites. Right-leaning Jewish leaders in the city have voiced strong disapproval, seeing this as a step backward in community safety.

Foreign Policy Stances Stir Debate

Mamdani’s foreign policy views have also drawn fire, with critics like Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York (R) labeling him a sympathizer to controversial causes. He’s called Israel an apartheid state and accused it of genocide in Gaza, even suggesting its leader should face arrest. These statements have fueled accusations that demand answers, though he’s pledged to fight antisemitism with increased funding.

Despite outreach by Fox News Digital, Mamdani’s office has yet to respond to the mounting criticism. This silence only adds to the unease among conservatives who fear his agenda could undermine both economic stability and social cohesion. New Yorkers deserve clarity, not platitudes.

As this story unfolds, the clash between Mamdani’s vision and conservative values is set to intensify. From housing to ideology, every policy will be under the microscope, and rightly so, as the city navigates uncharted waters. Let’s hope the “warmth” doesn’t burn down the house of liberty many hold sacred.