Trump met Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani Friday and praised him despite prior harsh insults.
He previously called Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic” and a “total nut job.”
Mamdani had described Trump’s administration as “authoritarian” but greeted him warmly.
They emphasized shared goals to improve New York over past disagreements.
Trump told reporters Mamdani might surprise conservative voters despite his democratic socialist stance.
The meeting gave Mamdani, once relatively unknown, national exposure alongside the president.
Trump used the session to discuss affordability issues amid rising political pressure.
Supporters on both sides may question the sudden cordiality and mutual praise.
Trump promised to support Mamdani in building a safer, stronger New York.
Mamdani appreciated that the discussion focused on shared purposes rather than disputes.
Focusing on Affordable Housing
Mamdani requested the meeting to explore ways to make New York more affordable.
Trump hinted he might support those efforts, setting aside previous threats about funding cuts.
He acknowledged past statements about restricting federal resources but reversed them in the meeting.
“We don’t want that to happen,” Trump told reporters.
Observers noted Trump’s earlier Oval Office confrontations with world leaders had raised concerns about conflict.
Mamdani said he didn’t worry about public embarrassment and wanted to present his policies.
Cooperation Replaces Confrontation
A senior administration official admitted Trump did not fully plan the meeting.
The official noted that federal funding threats technically remain possible.
Both men maintained calm, cordial interactions in front of reporters.
Trump expressed support for Mamdani’s housing policies.
He said he wanted to see tangible results and encouraged efforts to build more homes.
