Trump met Zohran Mamdani on Friday and found an unexpectedly friendly tone.
He had previously called Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic” and a “total nut job.”
Mamdani had criticized Trump’s administration as “authoritarian” yet greeted him warmly.
Both leaders emphasized shared goals to improve New York rather than highlight disagreements.
Trump praised Mamdani, saying he might surprise conservative voters.
The mayor-elect stood beside him as Trump expressed admiration in the Oval Office.
The meeting gave both politicians political exposure and influence.
Mamdani, once little-known, gained a platform to engage the nation’s most powerful leader.
Trump gained a chance to highlight affordability issues amid rising political pressure.
Supporters on each side may struggle to reconcile past rhetoric with this civility.
Focus on Affordability and Collaboration
Mamdani requested the meeting to discuss ways to make New York City more affordable.
Trump acknowledged prior threats to cut federal funding but abandoned them during the session.
He said he wanted to avoid funding conflicts and work cooperatively.
Observers remembered Trump’s heated interactions with world leaders earlier this year.
Mamdani said he welcomed the meeting despite past disagreements and saw it as a platform.
Calm Exchange Replaces Tension
A senior administration official said Trump did not plan the meeting extensively.
The same official noted federal funding threats technically remained possible.
Despite this, both men avoided public confrontation and spoke calmly to reporters.
Trump expressed support for Mamdani’s plans to expand housing in New York.
He noted the outcome might surprise observers expecting conflict.
