From ‘Despot’ to ‘Spectacular Success’: Trump and Mamdani Find Common Ground in Oval Office Meeting
Summary
In a political twist that caught observers off guard, US President Donald Trump and New York City’s Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani held a surprisingly cordial meeting at the White House this Friday. Despite a history of harsh rhetoric—where Mamdani previously labeled Trump a “despot” and the Trump camp referred to Mamdani as a “communist”—the two leaders set aside their differences to focus on the future of New York.
The atmosphere in the Oval Office was described as relaxed and filled with praise. President Trump, seated behind the Resolute Desk, told reporters he would be “cheering for” Mamdani, expressing confidence that the incoming mayor could do a “very good job.” When pressed by the media regarding previous insults, both men deflected, pivoting instead to their shared roots in Queens and a mutual love for the city.
The primary ground for this unexpected truce appears to be the affordability crisis. Trump, who campaigned heavily on economic stability and inflation, found alignment with Mamdani’s focus on housing costs and rent stabilization. The President noted that while their methods might differ, they both aim to reduce crime and improve living standards for New Yorkers.
Perhaps most notably, Trump dismissed attacks from his own party members. When asked about a comment by Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik referring to Mamdani as a “jihadist,” Trump flatly rejected the label, stating, “No, I don’t,” effectively shielding the Mayor-elect.
This camaraderie complicates the strategy for Republicans looking toward the 2026 midterms. GOP strategists had planned to paint the democratic socialist mayor as a political boogeyman, a narrative now undercut by the President’s own warm endorsement. Whether this truce survives once Mamdani takes office on January 1st remains to be seen, but for now, the White House and NYC City Hall are signaling cooperation.
Source:https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgqd42gl0qo