U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed plans to meet with New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani at the White House this Friday, marking their first encounter since Mamdani, a democratic socialist, won the mayoral election earlier this month. Trump and Mamdani have been at odds, with Trump supporting Mamdani’s opponent, Andrew Cuomo, while Mamdani has criticized Trump’s policies, particularly regarding immigration and U.S. support for Israel during the Gaza conflict.
The meeting, scheduled for November 21st at the Oval Office, was announced by Trump on social media. Mamdani’s team had initiated contact with the White House to arrange the meeting, aiming to discuss public safety, economic security, and the affordability agenda according to a spokesperson for Mamdani.
During the mayoral campaign, Trump had threatened to withhold billions in federal funding from New York City if Mamdani emerged victorious. The federal government is currently providing $7.4 billion to the city for the fiscal year 2026, constituting around 6.4% of its total expenditure as per a report by the New York State Comptroller.
Following Mamdani’s election, Trump has inaccurately labeled him as a “communist.” Mamdani, who emphasized countering Trump’s policies, especially on immigration, during his campaign, expressed his desire for New York to serve as a model for opposing the president during his victory speech. He also mentioned plans to “Trump-proof” the city and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including the president, for the benefit of New Yorkers.
Mamdani is set to be inaugurated as mayor on January 1.