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WASHINGTON (AP) — In an interview that aired on Sunday, New York City’s Mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, remained steadfast in his previous criticisms of President Donald Trump, despite their unexpectedly cordial meeting at the White House. Mamdani had previously accused Trump of behaving like a despot and a fascist, and those sentiments have not shifted.
Historically, the relationship between Mamdani, a newly elected democratic socialist, and Trump, a Republican, has been fraught with tension. Trump once labeled Mamdani as a “100% Communist Lunatic” on social media following the mayoral victory, while Mamdani has accused Trump of undermining democracy. Yet, Friday’s meeting saw both figures smiling and discussing common objectives, a surprising turn given their past exchanges.
During a “Meet the Press” interview conducted on Saturday, Mamdani was questioned about his previous statements. He stood firm, stating, “Everything that I’ve said in the past, I continue to believe.” He emphasized the importance of acknowledging political disagreements while focusing on the shared goal of serving New Yorkers. Mamdani highlighted that his presence at the White House was not about making a political statement but rather about achieving tangible results for his constituents.
President Trump, during Friday’s meeting, appeared to dismiss Mamdani’s earlier criticisms, even stepping in to defend him when a journalist inquired if Mamdani still considered Trump a fascist. Before Mamdani could respond, Trump interjected, showcasing an unusual moment of camaraderie between the political adversaries.
Trump had brushed aside Mamdani’s criticisms Friday and even jumped in on his defense several times. When a reporter asked if Mamdani stood by his comments that Trump is a fascist, Trump interjected before Mamdani could fully answer the question.
“That’s OK. You can just say yes. OK?” Trump said. “It’s easier. It’s easier than explaining it. I don’t mind.”
Asked about the fascist criticism on “Meet the Press,” Mamdani said, “That’s something that I’ve said in the past. I say it today. ”
Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, said on CNN’s “State of the Union” talk show that Trump wants to work with everybody who cares about the future of the American people.
“We’re at times disagreeing about policies,” Hassett said, “but I think that the objective of making life better for everybody is something that a lot of people share on the Democratic and Republican side.”
Though far apart politically, the White House meeting offered potential political benefits for both men. The incoming mayor was able to meet one-on-one with the president, and Trump got to to talk about affordability, an issue that is increasingly important to voters.