In a November 23 interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, New York City Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani didn’t soften his tone: he reiterated that he still sees Donald Trump as a “fascist” and a “despot.”
Yet, despite their deep ideological divide, Mamdani emphasized that he’s willing to work with Trump on what both consider the city’s most pressing issue — affordability.
The two recently met at the White House, and according to Mamdani, the discussion focused squarely on improving housing conditions and reducing living costs for New Yorkers. During that Oval Office meeting, a reporter asked Mamdani whether he still believed Trump was a fascist. Before Mamdani could finish his answer, Trump chimed in: “That’s OK … you can just say yes. It’s easier than explaining it. I don’t mind.” Mamdani responded with a simple “Okay … yes.”
Mamdani told Meet the Press that what he “appreciated” most about the meeting was the candid recognition of their disagreements — but greater focus on their shared goals. He argued that working across differences is essential to helping New Yorkers burdened by rising costs.
From Trump’s side, he expressed surprise at how much common ground they found. According to Trump, they “agree on a lot more than I thought.” He even made light of the label “despot,” saying he’s been called worse.
This unexpected meeting marks a rare moment of bipartisanship — or at least pragmatism — between two political figures who have publicly sparred. While their ideological rift remains deep, both leaders appear willing to lean into a shared agenda around housing and economic pressure in New York City.
