In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump met with New York City’s mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, on Friday afternoon, establishing a collaborative partnership aimed at addressing housing, food prices, and the rising cost of living. These issues have resonated strongly with working-class voters, a key demographic for both political figures.

“We found much common ground, more than I expected,” Trump stated during a press briefing in the Oval Office. Remarkably, he often defended Mamdani against challenging inquiries from journalists.

Despite the contentious backdrop of prior insults—Trump had previously referred to Mamdani as a “communist lunatic”—the meeting fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, achieved a significant electoral victory in early November, capturing over 50% of the vote.

“I believe he can do a tremendous job,” Trump remarked post-discussion, highlighting a willingness to transcend party lines for the sake of a stronger New York. “The better he performs, the more it benefits everyone. We’re focused on making New York safe and prosperous for all its residents.”

The president extended his congratulations to Mamdani, labeling the election a competitive triumph. Following their handshake, both leaders expressed optimism about their potential collaboration.

For Mamdani, the meeting validated his campaign strategy, which prioritized economic issues over ideological conflicts. He described the gathering as “productive” and reflective of a shared commitment to New York City’s future.

“We discussed rent, groceries, utilities, and the pressing challenges that are driving people out of the city,” Mamdani told reporters.

Trump echoed sentiments of agreement, noting that their discussions on reducing crime and expanding affordable housing revealed shared interests. This meeting marked a significant dialogue between the Republican president and the newly elected mayor—a definitive moment for both figures.

As a former state assembly member, Mamdani faced a pivotal test in negotiating with a president who wields substantial federal resources that New York City needs. His team initiated outreach for this meeting despite earlier threats from Trump to withhold federal funding if Mamdani assumed office.

Ahead of the meeting, the Trump administration leveraged various pressures. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials indicated plans to intensify operations in New York City, while some Republican members of Congress questioned Mamdani’s citizenship despite his naturalization in 2018.

Prior to their meeting, Mamdani consulted with prominent figures including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to prepare for the encounter. When asked about potential hostility, Mamdani dismissed concerns, asserting, “I will advocate for New Yorkers every single day.”

Mamdani positioned this meeting as an opportunity to propel his primary campaign focus: making New York City more affordable. His campaign promises include free public transit, government-operated grocery stores, and universal childcare programs.

“This meeting is my chance to make a strong case for the affordability of our city,” Mamdani emphasized.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mirrored this sentiment, stating that Trump’s willingness to engage with Mamdani underscored his openness to bipartisan dialogue.

“President Trump is committed to conversations with anyone willing to work toward improving conditions for the American people, regardless of their political affiliations,” Leavitt declared.

However, underlying tensions were apparent. Trump’s intervention in the mayoral race included dismissing his own party’s candidate in favor of endorsing former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Additionally, federal aid for critical infrastructure projects, such as the Gateway Tunnel and Second Avenue subway line, was withheld during budget negotiations.

Trump’s approval rating among New York voters stands at just 27%, with 70% disapproving, according to exit polls from CNN. Yet, a small segment—10%—of Trump’s supporters also backed Mamdani, indicating a crossover in their populist economic messaging despite stark differences in ideology.