Former President Donald Trump announced that he intends to meet with New York City’s mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, in a surprising move that comes after a series of sharp criticisms he leveled against him during the election campaign.
In a press briefing on Sunday, Trump told reporters that the meeting was arranged at Mamdani’s request, explaining that all he cares about is ensuring that “everything goes well in New York.”
Mamdani, 34, is a New York State Assembly member representing Queens and is affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America. He won the mayoral race on November 4 with record voter turnout, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent after losing the primary.
Mamdani Seeks Dialogue on Affordability Despite Trump’s Attacks
Although Trump repeatedly described Mamdani as a “communist” and expressed his support for Cuomo, Mamdani said in later remarks that he reached out to the White House to discuss ways to improve affordability in New York. He said: “I will try, honestly, to convince the president and anyone else that these are the things we need to change if we want to make it easier for New Yorkers and Americans to access life’s necessities.”
The anticipated meeting between Trump and Mamdani is considered a major political event, especially since Mamdani is set to lead the largest city in the United States—and Trump’s hometown. Mamdani’s campaign focused on issues of social justice, immigrant rights, and affordability, which earned him widespread support from young voters and working-class communities.
Mamdani’s Bold Message and Call for Dialogue
In his victory speech, Mamdani addressed Trump directly, saying: “If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that birthed him.” He added: “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn up the volume.”
USA Today reported that although the White House has not officially congratulated Mamdani on his victory, Mamdani confirmed that he is ready for dialogue, saying: “I remain interested in having a conversation with President Trump about how we can work together to serve the people of New York.”