New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani remains steadfast in his criticism of President Donald Trump, whom he labeled a "fascist" during his campaign.
Despite this, their initial meeting at the White House was unexpectedly cordial. Mamdani, appearing on NBC's "Meet the Press," reiterated his unchanged stance on the President, stating, "After President Trump said that, I said, Yes," and affirming, "everything that Ive said in the past, I continue to believe."
However, he emphasized that his primary focus during the meeting was addressing the pressing issues facing New Yorkers, particularly the escalating cost of living.
According to The Post Millennial, the interaction between the President and Mamdani was notably amicable, a stark contrast to the contentious nature of the election campaign. President Trump expressed his support for Mamdani, telling reporters he would be "cheering" for him, while Mamdani characterized their discussion as "productive." Throughout the campaign, Trump had been vocally critical of Mamdani, branding him a "communist lunatic," while Mamdani had referred to Trump as a "despot."
In an effort to move past the campaign's acrimony, Mamdani sought to reset the dialogue. He engaged with voters in the Bronx and Queens who supported Trump in 2024, consistently hearing concerns about the "cost of living." This feedback shaped his conversation with the President, as Mamdani explained, "We were speaking about what is preventing from delivering on that affordability agenda."
The two also addressed the President's previous threats to deploy National Guard troops to New York City. While Mamdani did not disclose whether Trump had abandoned this idea, he conveyed his confidence in the NYPD's ability to maintain public safety without federal intervention. President Trump later remarked that he would send troops "if they need it."
Their meeting followed the President's endorsement of Mamdani's opponent, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, just before the election. Despite this endorsement, Mamdani emerged victorious and used his victory speech to critique the Trump administration, vowing that "New York will be the light."
Mamdani also discussed his intention to increase taxes on the city's wealthiest residents, expressing optimism that Governor Kathy Hochul would collaborate with him on affordability initiatives. He remains open to alternative solutions, provided they generate equivalent revenue. Furthermore, Mamdani voiced his support for Representative Hakeem Jeffries as a potential Speaker if Democrats regain control of the House in 2026.
He also mentioned a recent conversation with former President Barack Obama, focusing on maintaining hope and fulfilling campaign commitments.
As Mamdani prepares to assume office, his approach reflects a commitment to addressing the concerns of New Yorkers while navigating the complexities of a relationship with the Trump administration.
His focus on affordability and public safety underscores the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the incoming mayor.
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