In a striking display of political discourse, Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected mayor of New York City, reaffirmed his characterization of former President Donald Trump as a “fascist” and a “despot.” This declaration came just days after an unexpected cordial meeting between the two at the White House. During an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday, Mamdani was asked if he still perceives Trump as a threat to democracy. He responded firmly, stating, “Everything that I’ve said in the past I continue to believe.”
In his victory speech delivered on November 4, Mamdani articulated a vision for New York as a beacon of hope amidst a “moment of political darkness,” specifically targeting the former president. He emphasized, “If there is any way to terrify a despot, it is by dismantling the very conditions that allowed him to accumulate power.” Mamdani even had a bold message for Trump, saying, “So, Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up.”
Given the historically intense rhetoric Trump has directed towards Mamdani—calling him a “communist lunatic”—the meeting at the White House was highly anticipated, with many expecting a contentious exchange. Contrary to these expectations, the meeting was marked by warmth, with Trump expressing confidence in Mamdani’s ability to perform well in office. “I feel very confident that he can do a good job,” Trump stated, adding, “I think he’s going to surprise some conservative people, actually.”
The two leaders found common ground on critical issues such as housing, food prices, and cost-of-living concerns. “We agreed a lot more than I would have thought,” Trump remarked in the Oval Office, indicating a willingness to work collaboratively. Mamdani echoed this sentiment, noting that they discussed the necessity of delivering on their agenda while acknowledging their political disagreements.
During the interview, Mamdani also addressed his choice to retain Jessica Tisch as police commissioner, a position she previously held under former mayor Eric Adams. “She has driven down crime across the five boroughs while starting to uproot corruption that was endemic in the top echelons of that department under Mayor Adams,” Mamdani stated, highlighting his commitment to public safety.
In support of this decision, Kevin Hasset, director of the National Economic Council, expressed satisfaction during a Sunday appearance on CNN’s State of the Union. Hasset remarked, “We are really reassured that Mamdani has kept the police commissioner. In previous administrations in New York, we have seen law and order really go south.”
However, it is important to note that despite their collaborative spirit, differences remain. Tisch communicated her contrasting views in an email to NYPD officers, saying, “Do the mayor-elect and I agree on everything? No, we don’t.” While she supports Adams’s plan to recruit 5,000 more uniformed officers, Mamdani has indicated that he wants to maintain the current headcount.
As Mamdani navigates his new role as mayor, his relationship with Trump will undoubtedly be scrutinized. His recent comments and decisions reflect an intention to balance collaboration with his firm stance on critical political issues. Moving forward, the dynamics between these two leaders will be pivotal in shaping the future of New York City.