In a striking display of political theater, New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani publicly reaffirmed his belief that President Donald Trump is a “fascist” just days after a notably cordial meeting at the White House. The exchange, which drew national attention, highlighted the complex dynamics between the two leaders as they navigated both personal animosity and shared policy goals.
The meeting, held in the Oval Office, was described by both parties as warm and productive. Trump praised Mamdani for his aims and conduct, stating, “I think he is going to surprise some conservative people, actually,” and pledged to help make New York “strong and safe.” Mamdani, in turn, expressed appreciation for the conversation, emphasizing their shared focus on addressing New York’s affordability crisis.
Despite the amicable tone, reporters pressed Mamdani on his past comments labeling Trump a “fascist.” When asked directly whether he still held that view, Mamdani began to respond, but Trump interjected, saying, “That’s okay. You can just say yes. It’s easier than explaining it. I don’t mind,” as he patted Mamdani’s arm. Mamdani then affirmed his position, stating, “That’s something that I’ve said in the past, and I say it today.”
The moment became a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over political rhetoric and civility. Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, has long been a vocal critic of Trump, while Trump has previously referred to Mamdani as a “communist lunatic.” Yet, both leaders appeared to set aside their differences during the meeting, focusing instead on issues such as rent, groceries, utilities, and the broader affordability challenges facing New Yorkers.
On the NBC program “Meet the Press,” Mamdani further clarified his stance, telling host Kristen Welker, “Everything that I’ve said in the past, I continue to believe.” He added, “I think that’s the thing that’s important in our politics is that we don’t shy away from where we have disagreements, but we understand what it is that brings us to the table.”
Trump, for his part, downplayed the significance of the exchange, telling reporters, “The press has eaten this thing up.” He noted that the meeting had garnered more attention than many of his meetings with foreign heads of state, quipping, “You know I’ve had a lot of meetings with heads of major countries, nobody cared. This meeting… outside you have hundreds of people waiting.”
The encounter underscores the evolving nature of American politics, where personal animosity and ideological differences often coexist with pragmatic cooperation on pressing issues. As Mamdani prepares to take office, the spotlight remains on his ability to balance his progressive ideals with the realities of governing a diverse and politically divided city.
Observers say the meeting may signal a new chapter in the relationship between the White House and New York City, one marked by both tension and collaboration. As Mamdani put it, “Time to put working people at the heart of our politics.”