Zohran Mamdani Reaffirms Criticism of Trump Despite Warm White House Meeting

Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s newly elected mayor, has once again described former President Donald Trump as a “fascist” and an “authoritarian,” even days after an unexpectedly cordial meeting between the two at the White House.

Speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday, Mamdani was asked whether he still views Trump as a threat to democracy. He responded:

“What I have said in the past, I still believe. In a political system with real disagreements, there is no room for stepping back.”

During his victory speech on November 4, Mamdani called New York a “beacon of light in politically dark times” and addressed Trump directly:

“The most effective way to intimidate an authoritarian is to dismantle the conditions that helped him gain power. Donald Trump, I know you’re watching—my four words for you: Turn the volume up.”

A Surprisingly Cordial White House Discussion

The meeting in the Oval Office attracted significant attention, given Trump’s recent personal attacks on Mamdani, including labeling him a “communist madman.” Many anticipated a tense confrontation, but the discussion was reportedly warm and cooperative. Trump was quoted saying:

“I am very confident he will do a good job,” adding that Mamdani might surprise some conservatives.

The two leaders agreed to work together on housing, food prices, and the rising cost of living, and even discussed their shared affection for New York City. Trump reportedly told Mamdani, “We agreed on far more issues than we initially thought,” and occasionally shielded him from the press during questioning.

Mamdani told NBC:

“It was a conversation focused on implementing our agenda effectively. We did not shy away from discussing political differences, and we also emphasized how to move toward action.”

Key Decisions on Policing and Governance

Mamdani defended his decision to retain Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who had been appointed by former Mayor Eric Adams. Mamdani said Tisch has helped reduce five major crime categories while addressing high-level corruption in the department under Adams.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett praised the decision, noting its importance for advancing the White House economic agenda. Speaking on CNN’s State of the Union, Hassett said:

“We are reassured that the mayor has kept the police commissioner in place. Under previous administrations, law enforcement had really deteriorated.”

Tisch sent an internal email acknowledging that differences of opinion between the mayor and herself are natural. While supporting the recruitment of five new officers, Mamdani indicated he intends to maintain staffing levels.