Trump Surprises Critics by Embracing New York Mayor-Elect Mamdani After White House Meeting
Trump and NYC Mayor-elect Mamdani meet at White House to discuss housing and city issues.
In a striking shift from previous confrontations, US President Donald Trump met New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani at the White House on November 21, 2025, adopting a conciliatory tone and expressing confidence in Mamdani’s leadership. Trump, who had previously criticized Mamdani during the mayoral campaign, emphasized their common ground on critical issues like rent, utilities, and housing affordability, declaring he would feel “very comfortable” living in a city governed by Mamdani.
During the Oval Office meeting, the two leaders discussed pressing concerns about the high cost of living in New York City—a theme central to Mamdani’s campaign platform. Trump acknowledged supporting several of Mamdani’s proposals, including efforts to build more housing to address affordability challenges. Despite their ideological differences, both agreed to work on shared objectives, including improving public safety and economic stability.
Trump also downplayed his prior threats to cut federal funding to New York City, a substantial portion of the city’s budget, signaling a more cooperative approach. Mamdani, who secured a sweeping victory earlier this year on promises to freeze rents and bolster social services, highlighted the importance of a candid dialogue with the president about the challenges facing New Yorkers, particularly financial pressures.
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The meeting surprised many political observers given the history of public insults exchanged between the two, including Trump labeling Mamdani a “communist” and Mamdani calling Trump a “despot.” However, this face-to-face encounter showcased a potential thaw in relations as both leaders expressed hopes to find common ground for the city’s benefit, setting a tone of collaboration amidst ongoing political divides.
Trump even praised Mamdani’s decision to retain the current Police Commissioner and expressed admiration for the mayor-elect’s victory. The president remarked that being mayor of New York City was a role he had long admired, signaling respect for the office and for Mamdani’s opportunity to shape the city’s future.
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