When Zohran Mamdani assumed the role of New York City’s mayor, he made a bold promise to shift the balance of power towards the citizens. However, just a few days into his term, he reportedly engaged in a private discussion with one of the most affluent filmmakers in the world.

The New York Times revealed that Mayor Mamdani visited Steven Spielberg at his Central Park West residence on Monday. This meeting was not listed on Mamdani’s public agenda, but it was later verified by both Spielberg’s representative and City Hall.

Known for his democratic socialist ideals, Mamdani’s campaign was heavily focused on curbing the sway of the wealthy and prioritizing the needs of everyday residents of New York City.

Interestingly, the Times highlighted that, contrary to his critics’ warnings that Mamdani’s leadership might drive the affluent away, Spielberg—a billionaire—chose to become an official New Yorker on the very day Mamdani was inaugurated. This fact was confirmed by two sources.

In a statement made on New Year’s Day, following his swearing-in by Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, Mamdani declared, “We will answer to all New Yorkers, not to any billionaire or oligarch who thinks they can buy our democracy.”

Spielberg is known for blockbuster films such as “Jaws,” “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Saving Private Ryan,” among others.

He’s also a longtime Democratic Party donor. Sources told the Times the meeting lasted about an hour, had no set agenda, and was not publicly disclosed. 

Mamdani’s predecessor, former Mayor Eric Adams, had faced scrutiny for his after-hours behavior, including attending nightclubs and restaurants. 

When asked about Adams’ behavior, Mamdani said he would not be seen at the same nightclub as his predecessor and instead would be a “mayor who visits nurses and hospitals after the sun has set, who speaks to E.M.S. workers and bus operators working the late shifts.”

While New York City mayors routinely meet with prominent figures, the private nature of this visit has drawn attention because of Mamdani’s campaign image as an outsider to elite circles.