New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced on Tuesday his intention to reach out to President Donald Trump before officially taking office on New Year’s Day. He described cooperation with the White House as “critical to the success of the city,” according to a report by The New York Post.
In an interview with NBC New York, Mamdani, 34, emphasized his goal to maintain open communication with the Trump administration while also preparing to challenge the President’s firm stances on immigration and crime.
“This is a relationship that will be critical,” Mamdani said. “If President Trump wants to speak about lowering the cost of living or delivering cheaper groceries, like he ran on [in 2024], I’m there to have that conversation.”
He added that his approach would carefully balance cooperation and resistance, depending on the policies at hand. “I’m here to work for the benefit of everyone that calls the city home, and that wherever there is a possibility for working together toward that end, I’m ready,” Mamdani said. “And if [the administration’s policies] are to the expense of those New Yorkers, I will fight.”
This announcement comes just weeks after Mamdani’s victory in the November 4 mayoral election, which made him the first Democratic socialist elected to lead New York City. His win followed a contentious campaign marked by sharp policy differences with the Trump administration.
Before the election, President Trump warned that Mamdani’s victory could have serious consequences for the city, including potential loss of federal funding or even a federal takeover. During the campaign, Trump labeled Mamdani a “Communist,” accusing him of promoting policies that could harm the city’s economic recovery.
Following Mamdani’s election, President Trump slightly softened his tone, telling reporters last week, “I hope it works out for New York,” adding, “we’ll help him a little bit, maybe.”
Mamdani also confirmed that he has communicated with New York Governor Kathy Hochul about strategies to address upcoming challenges involving the federal government, especially if disagreements arise over federal directives or funding decisions.
While Mamdani has not specified when he will formally contact the President, he said he plans to be “proactive” in establishing communication channels between City Hall and the White House before his inauguration.
The incoming mayor’s approach indicates that while he intends to stand firm on his political priorities, he understands the importance of maintaining dialogue with the federal government on major issues affecting New York City.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/11/nycs-socialist-mayor-elect-plans-to-call-trump-before-inauguration/
