Oval Office meeting marks dramatic shift in tone between the two political opposites.
WASHINGTON: In a moment that startled political observers across the United States, President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani held a surprisingly cordial first meeting at the White House on Friday, setting aside months of fiery rhetoric to pledge cooperation on the growing affordability crisis.
Once fierce critics, the Republican president and the 34-year-old democratic socialist appeared relaxed and unexpectedly aligned as Trump praised Mamdani repeatedly a striking contrast to earlier attacks in which he branded the mayor-elect a “communist,” “radical left lunatic,” and “Jew hater.”
“We agree on a lot more than I would have thought,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. “We want this city of ours that we love to do very well.”
Mamdani responded diplomatically, saying the discussion focused not on their many disagreements, but on shared responsibilities toward New Yorkers.
Affordability Takes Center Stage
Their private meeting focused heavily on the soaring cost of living an issue increasingly damaging for Trump, with only 26% of Americans approving his economic handling of household costs, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll.
Both leaders agreed that New York utility giant Con Edison must lower its soaring rates.
“We are going to have to talk to them,” Trump said.
“Absolutely,” Mamdani replied.
Con Edison later issued a statement saying it “welcomed the opportunity” to work with Mamdani on affordability reforms.
Political Recalibration for Trump
The meeting came at a sensitive time for Trump, who has faced intense scrutiny after the release of documents related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The president’s sudden warmth toward Mamdani a rising left-wing figure who swept progressive victories across New York surprised many, including members of his own party.
“What the heck just happened?” asked Rep. Rashida Tlaib on social media after viewing footage of the two men laughing together.
Trump also came to Mamdani’s defense when a reporter asked whether he believed he had “a jihadist” standing beside him.
“No, I don’t,” Trump said sharply. “I met with a man who’s a very rational person.”
Old Insults Put Aside, at Least for Now
Journalists pressed the pair about their history of verbal clashes.
When asked if Mamdani still believed Trump was a fascist, the president joked:
“That’s OK, you can just say ‘yes.’ It’s easier.”
While Mamdani refrained from praising Trump, he maintained a respectful tone, reiterating concerns about the administration’s immigration policies and their impact on New Yorkers.
Body Language Suggests Early Rapport
Analysts noted the unusually warm body language between the two. Trump shook Mamdani’s hand multiple times, tapped his arm, and appeared almost protective at points.
The dynamic resembled Trump’s encounters with sports teams a sentiment reinforced when he remarked:
“Leading New York City is a big deal.”
A New Political Alliance? Too Early to Tell
Despite the show of unity, core ideological differences remain sharp.
Trump hinted Mamdani may “surprise some conservative people,” while the mayor-elect reaffirmed his commitments to free buses, expanded childcare, rent freezes, and other progressive priorities.
Still, both men projected harmony on what they called America’s most pressing issue: affordability.
“The better he does, the happier I am,” Trump said.
When asked if he would return to live in New York under Mamdani’s leadership, Trump replied:
“Yeah, I would especially after the meeting.”
What Happened?
Trump and Mamdani held their first-ever meeting — surprisingly friendly and cooperative, despite months of bitter political hostility.
Why It Matters?
The unexpected alliance could reshape New York politics, give Trump a strategic narrative reset, and introduce rare cross-party cooperation on affordability.
How It Could Impact NYC and National Politics? Joint pressure on utility costs, housing, and transport reforms could bring tangible policy outcomes. Politically, the meeting gives Trump a softer bipartisan image while strengthening Mamdani’s national profile.