Washington: US President Donald Trump welcomed New York mayor elect Zohran Mamdani to the White House after a tense election season marked by strong statements from both sides. The meeting came weeks after Mamdani’s victory in the New York City mayoral race, which drew national attention because of his background, his policy positions and his sharp criticism of the president.
Mamdani, a state lawmaker and democratic socialist, requested the meeting to discuss affordability and public safety. He said he intends to work with the White House on issues that help New Yorkers. He added that he will oppose any policy that harms the city. Trump praised Mamdani’s campaign and said he was open to cooperation. He said both leaders want New York to succeed.
Their interaction stood in contrast to earlier exchanges. Trump had labeled Mamdani a radical left figure and accused him of holding extreme views without evidence. Mamdani had attacked Trump’s policies on immigration enforcement and warned that threats to cut federal support would hurt residents. New York receives about 7.4 billion dollars in federal funds in fiscal year 2026, which forms more than six percent of the city’s spending.
Mamdani will be the first Muslim and first South Asian mayor of New York City. He said he will focus on rising costs. He listed housing, groceries, childcare and transport as areas where families need relief. New York rents are almost double the national average. Trump faces poor approval ratings on inflation. A recent Reuters Ipsos poll found that only 26 percent of Americans approve of his handling of living costs.
The two leaders exchanged criticism again after the election. Mamdani told supporters that New Yorkers know how to challenge Trump. Trump said he did not understand Mamdani’s remarks and warned him to be careful with his language. Both sides still described their meeting as civil.
