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During an interview on CBS’s 60 Minutes, President Donald Trump shared his strong views about who should lead New York City. The city’s election is happening this Tuesday, and Trump didn’t hold back when talking about Zohran Mamdani, the front-runner who’s leading in the polls.
Reporter Norah O’Donnell described Mamdani as a democratic socialist with a lot of public support. Trump quickly cut her off and said, “Communist, not socialist. He’s far worse than a socialist.” When asked what he would do if Mamdani wins, Trump said it might be hard for New York to get money from the federal government under Mamdani’s leadership.
Trump explained that it would be difficult for him to give federal funds to a city led by someone he believes is a communist. He added that if the choice came down to a “bad Democrat” or a communist, he would always choose the Democrat.
What surprised people most was what came next. Even after criticizing Mamdani so harshly, Trump said he would still be open to meeting him. When O’Donnell asked if he’d talk to Mamdani face to face, Trump replied, “Yeah, I’ll speak to him. I think I have an obligation to speak to him.”
This was unexpected, since Trump has been attacking Mamdani for months. He’s claimed Mamdani would be a disaster for New York and even hinted that he might send the military into the city if Mamdani became mayor.
Trump’s comments have added even more drama to an election that was already making headlines. Polls show Mamdani is far ahead of former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Many voters like Mamdani’s plans to make life easier and cheaper in the city with things like free public buses, lower housing costs, and childcare that everyone can afford.
Last month, Trump didn’t endorse any candidate, not even Curtis Sliwa, the Republican in the race. Now, after his latest interview, people are wondering what the relationship between Trump and New York City officials would look like if Mamdani wins. The city relies heavily on federal funds to keep everyday services running, so this election could shape how that partnership plays out.