(The Hill) – In a surprising turn of events, President Trump extended commendations to New York City’s Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani following what both parties described as a “productive” session at the White House. This marks a significant shift from Trump’s earlier criticisms where he often labeled Mamdani as a “communist.”

“I believe you’re set to have, hopefully, an outstanding mayor. The better his performance, the more satisfied I am,” Trump stated from the Oval Office, with Mamdani by his side. “There’s no party divide, no differences at all. We’re committed to assisting him in realizing everyone’s dreams. A robust and secure New York is our goal.”

Trump further acknowledged Mamdani as “rational” and expressed his support for Mamdani’s forthcoming tenure.

The discussion between the two leaders encompassed topics such as housing affordability and reducing costs associated with food and energy.

Mamdani also highlighted their dialogue on immigration enforcement within the city, voicing his concerns about the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New York.

Asked specifically about his past attacks on Mamdani calling him a “communist,” Trump suggested the mayor-elect may change his views and even impress some conservatives.

“He’s got views that are a little out there, but who knows. I mean, we’re going to see what works. He’s going to change, also. I changed a lot,” Trump said. “I feel very confident that he can do a very good job. I think he is going to surprise some conservative people, actually.”

Mamdani was asked about his criticisms of Trump, which included calling him a “despot.” Mamdani argued he and Trump were in agreement on the issue of affordability and bringing down costs despite ideological disagreements.

“I’ve been called much worse than a despot,” Trump said.

The amicable appearance between the two men came as something of a shock given the past rhetoric between the two men. 

Trump spent months railing against Mamdani, who is a Democratic Socialist, as a “communist” and threatening to withhold federal funding from New York City if Mamdani implemented certain policies. Trump urged voters in the final days of the campaign to back former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) in the mayoral race.

Mamdani centered his campaign on the issue of affordability and bringing down costs, an issue that helped carry Democrats to victories in statewide elections in Virginia and New Jersey. But the mayor-elect has also vowed to push back on any efforts by Trump to cut off federal funding or impose federal pressure on the city.