UPDATE: Sean Ryan has officially taken office as the new Mayor of Buffalo during a historic ceremony held on January 1, 2026, at Kleinhans Music Hall. This marks the first time in 20 years that a newly elected mayor has been inaugurated in Buffalo, following the tenure of former mayor Byron Brown.
In an emotional oath-taking ceremony, attended by hundreds, Ryan emphasized a new vision for the city. “This is a moment of choice for our city. We can accept the way things have been, or we can decide to do better,” he stated, setting a tone of urgency and accountability for his administration.
Ryan, who was sworn in by U.S. District Judge Anthony Brindisi, highlighted his commitment to a responsive city government. “Our work will be guided by a few clear principles,” he declared, focusing on accountability, neighborhood importance, equitable growth, and integrity in leadership. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as he pledged to build a city that listens and delivers for all Buffalonians.
The event was a culmination of a nearly two-hour ceremony that began with a legal swearing-in before the public inauguration. Judge Brindisi recalled a conversation with Ryan during their early days in public service, where Ryan expressed his ambition to become mayor. “I knew this day would come,” Brindisi said, reflecting on Ryan’s journey.
Ryan succeeds Byron Brown, who served for nearly two decades before resigning in October 2024. Following Brown’s departure, Christopher Scanlon assumed the role of acting mayor but was defeated by Ryan in the 2025 Democratic Primary. Ryan then secured an overwhelming victory in the November general election, paving the way for this significant transition.
Notable attendees included Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz and State Senator April Baskin, who delivered powerful remarks. Baskin praised Ryan’s ability to identify potential and create opportunities, noting, “I have memories of our new mayor, identifying opportunity, identifying potential, and turning it into greatness.”
The inaugural festivities began the night before with a glamorous gala at the Hotel Lafayette, setting the stage for Ryan’s new leadership. Following the ceremony, guests gathered for a reception at the Mary Seaton Room inside Kleinhans, celebrating a new chapter in Buffalo’s history.
As he concluded his inaugural address, Ryan emphasized the collaborative effort needed to transform the city. “Today marks the day of a new chapter in Buffalo’s story,” he said, urging citizens to join him in the mission to foster a government that respects and uplifts every neighborhood.
Ryan’s administration is poised to implement a fresh approach, including the hiring of four deputy mayors, aiming to restructure how city governance operates. The community is eager to see how these changes will enhance the effectiveness of local government.
As Buffalo enters this new era, residents are hopeful for a responsive and accountable city leadership that prioritizes their needs. Sean Ryan’s administration begins with high expectations, and the eyes of the city are on him as he embarks on this critical journey.
