Trump Meets NYC Mayor-Elect Mamdani at White House
US President Donald Trump met with New York City's Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani at the White House. This encounter followed previous political exchanges, including Mamdani, a self-described Democratic socialist, having referred to Trump as a "despot" during his election campaign. Prior to the meeting, the president's spokeswoman had also characterized Mamdani's visit as a "communist coming to the White House."
Conciliatory Tone Observed
During their Oval Office meeting, both individuals exhibited a conciliatory tone. They emphasized a shared interest in addressing New York City's affordability crisis. Both men smiled during the interaction, and Trump responded to inquiries concerning Mamdani's past political criticisms. Mamdani is scheduled to assume office on January 1. Trump stated, "I'll be cheering for him."
President Trump's Remarks
A conciliatory tone was also observed during press statements following the private meeting. Mamdani stood to Trump's right while the president sat behind the Resolute Desk. Trump offered praise for Mamdani multiple times, expressing hope that Mamdani would be a "really great mayor" and stating confidence that he could "do a very good job."
Addressing Past Criticisms
A reporter at the event brought up past political criticisms, noting Trump's previous designation of Mamdani as a "communist" and Mamdani's reference to Trump as a "despot." Both men redirected questions regarding these past statements, pivoting to themes of collaboration. Trump permitted Mamdani to address a question about whether he considered the president a "fascist," interjecting, "That's ok, you can just say yes," while tapping Mamdani's arm and smiling, adding, "It's easier than explaining." Trump described Mamdani's views as "little out there."
Trump also dismissed an attack made by Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, a political ally running for governor of New York, against Mamdani. When asked by a reporter, quoting Stefanik, if he believed he was standing next to a "jihadist," Trump responded, "No I don't." He then commented on campaign rhetoric regarding Stefanik, stating, "She's a very capable person."
Shared New York Roots
Mamdani and Trump share origins in New York City's borough of Queens. Trump's childhood home is in Jamaica Estates, while Mamdani resides in Astoria. Mamdani stated they shared a "love" for the city. Trump discussed his hometown during the news conference, stating, "This city could be unbelievable, if he could be a spectacular success, I'll be very happy." Trump also suggested he would have liked to be mayor of New York himself.
Focus on Affordability
Both men focused on cost-of-living issues. Trump had emphasized high inflation during his re-election campaign. Trump has addressed the cost of groceries, housing, and other essentials, communicating a message of economic stability. Recent elections showed Republican challenges and Democratic victories. The midterm elections next year will determine control of the US Congress. During his campaign, Mamdani focused on affordable housing, proposing measures such as freezing rent increases on rent-stabilized apartments.
Mamdani stated discussions with the president included how to "deliver affordability to New Yorkers." He consistently redirected questions about differing views to the topic of affordability. When questioned about Middle East peace, Mamdani stated that Trump voters had expressed desires for "an end to forever wars" and for leaders to address "the cost of living crisis."