United States President, Donald Trump, expressed unexpected warmth toward New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani during a White House meeting Friday, highlighting potential areas of cooperation despite their ideological differences.
When asked if he considered Trump a fascist, Mamdani began to answer, only for the former president to interrupt playfully: “That’s OK – you can just say yes. That’s easier,” he laughed, tapping Mamdani on the arm.
The meeting, initially seen as tense due to Trump’s prior threats against Mamdani during the campaign,including suggestions to withhold federal funding, deploy the National Guard, or even arrest him, proved surprisingly cordial.
“I really would [live in New York City]—especially after the meeting, absolutely,” Trump said, adding, “We agree on a lot more than I really thought.”
Mamdani, the self-described democratic socialist who won more than 50% of the vote, focused on working-class issues and restoring affordability to the city.
Trump acknowledged his victory and emphasized shared interests, including energy costs, public safety, and peace in the Middle East, though divisions remain on immigration enforcement and the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Both leaders recognized the political value of each other’s appeal: crossover voters who supported Mamdani in New York also backed Trump in 2024.
With $7.4 billion in federal funding at stake for New York City’s 2026 budget, a cooperative relationship carries practical importance for the mayor-elect.
Highlighting the lighter side of the visit, Mamdani and Trump admired a portrait of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, posed for photos, and shared smiles throughout, even as Trump defended Mamdani against criticism from GOP ally Rep. Elise Stefanik.
“I met with a man who’s a very rational person. I met with a man who wants to see New York be great again,” Trump said.
Mamdani described the meeting as “focused on a place of shared admiration and love, which is New York City,” while Trump expressed confidence that Mamdani could impress across the aisle. “I think he is going to surprise some conservative people, actually,” he said.
