US President Donald Trump met New York City's newly elected mayor Zohran Mamdani at the White House in what was billed as the political showdown of the year - but instead became a praise fest.
In his election victory speech, the self-described Democratic socialist mayor called Trump a despot. And before Friday's meeting, the president's spokeswoman had billed Mamdani's visit as a communist coming to the White House.
But standing side-by-side in the Oval Office, the two men struck a surprisingly conciliatory tone. Over and over, both men emphasized their shared interest in addressing New York City's affordability crisis. They smiled often, and Trump even appeared amused as reporters asked him about the political attacks Mamdani had fired his way.
The tone of the meeting appeared to strike political observers off-guard, but it offered a signal that both men understand that tackling the affordability crisis is critical to their political success. Whether the truce will last once Mamdani takes office on 1 January remains to be seen.
Until then, I'll be cheering for him, Trump said.
Trump full of praise
The rapport was evident from the moment they started speaking to the press. Facing the media after a private meeting, Mamdani stood to Trump's right with his hands clasped, as the president sat behind the Resolute Desk. Their body language was relaxed – particularly Trump's.
Not only did Trump refrain from attacking Mamdani, he praised him numerous times. The president expressed hope that Mamdani would be a really great mayor. Later, he added he was confident that he can do a very good job.
Brushing off questions about jihad and fascism
Mamdani and Trump traded political barbs throughout the mayoral election. A reporter reminded the two men that Trump had called Mamdani a communist and Mamdani had referred to the president as a despot.
Both men deflected multiple questions about their previous statements and pivoted back to praise. Trump even let Mamdani answer a question about whether the mayor-elect thought the president was a fascist.
In a light-hearted moment, Trump interjected, That's ok, you can just say yes, giving Mamdani a light tap on the arm and smiling. It's easier than explaining.
Perhaps most striking, Trump dismissed a question about a derogatory remark on Mamdani by one of Trump's top political allies in New York, stating, No I don't when asked if he thought he was standing next to a 'jihadist' in the Oval Office.
Bonding over New York roots
Mamdani and Trump share a commonality as both are native New Yorkers, having called Queens home. Trump reminisced fondly about his hometown, expressing hopes that Mamdani could lead the city to success. This city could be unbelievable - if he could be a spectacular success, I'll be very happy, Trump remarked.
Affordability focus
The focus on affordability issues might explain their apparent alignment. Trump won re-election last year by addressing inflation that concerned voters, while Mamdani's campaign prioritized affordable housing. The two discussed methods to improve living costs for New Yorkers.
A complication for Republicans' strategy?
The amicable display may complicate Republican efforts to portray Mamdani as a political extremist in the upcoming midterm elections. With prior systematic attacks planned against the mayor-elect, the kindness shown at the White House raises questions about the effectiveness of such strategies moving forward.
Trump's belief in Mamdani's potential to surprise some conservative people suggests a new dynamic in the political dialogue surrounding New York's governance.
