Trump Privately Praises NYC Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani, Calls Him a “Slick” Talker

Former President Donald Trump has offered surprising private praise for New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani. This follows weeks of public attacks from Trump against the Democratic socialist. The private comments were reported by The New York Times this week.

Trump admitted in private that Mamdani is a talented politician. He reportedly called the mayor-elect a “slick” and good talker. This marks a stark shift from his previous public statements.

A Sharp Contrast to Public Rhetoric

The private compliments sharply contrast Trump’s public campaign trail rhetoric. He has repeatedly labeled Mamdani an extremist and a communist. Trump also insisted he was “much better looking” than the 34-year-old mayor-elect.

Mamdani has consistently denied being a communist. His victory speech contained a direct message for Trump. He told the former president to “turn the volume up” and declared unity against him.

According to the New York Times report, Trump suggested he might “help him a little bit maybe.” He stated he wanted New York City to succeed. The report cited two people familiar with the private remarks.

Political Pressure and a New Dynamic

Trump’s allies are urging a more diplomatic approach toward New York. The city is his hometown. Billionaire John Catsimatidis advised Trump not to withhold federal money from New Yorkers.

Catsimatidis did not think sending in the military was necessary. He did suggest closely monitoring federal funds sent to the city. This advice points to the complex relationship between Trump and his home city’s new leadership.

The private praise creates an unexpected new dynamic. It sets the stage for a fraught mayoral term beginning in January. All eyes will be on the interaction between the Democratic mayor and the Republican former president.

This private admission from Donald Trump reveals a calculated, if contradictory, view of a political opponent. The surprising compliment for Zohran Mamdani suggests political pragmatism may yet override public bluster.

Dropping this nugget your way

What did Trump say about Zohran Mamdani?

In private, Trump called Mamdani a “slick” and good talker. He admitted the mayor-elect was a talented politician, according to The New York Times.

Why is Trump’s praise surprising?

It is surprising because Trump publicly attacked Mamdani for weeks. He called him an extremist and a communist danger to New York City.

How did Mamdani respond to Trump previously?

In his victory speech, Mamdani directly addressed Trump. He told him to “turn the volume up” and vowed collective resistance.

What is the source of this report?

The information comes from a New York Times report. The paper cited two people familiar with Trump’s private comments.

Does this mean Trump will support Mamdani?

Trump suggested he might “help him a little bit” because he wants NYC to succeed. This does not guarantee public support or aligned policies.

Who is advising Trump on New York?

Billionaire ally John Catsimatidis advised a more diplomatic approach. He urged against withholding funds but recommended monitoring their use.