US President Donald Trump met New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani for one hour at Gracie Mansion, Manhattan, on 21/9, during Trump's visit for the United Nations General Assembly. Following their meeting, Trump praised Mamdani at a joint press conference, stating, "I want you to be a great mayor. You have great potential to be a great mayor and are off to a good start." This marks the first time a US president has visited the New York Mayor's official residence since the 1980s.
The head of the White House thanked Mayor Mamdani for the invitation, noting his familiarity with Gracie Mansion from previous visits with "various mayors." Trump, a former successful businessman in New York, expressed his affection for the city: "From my perspective, I love New York, and this residence is a symbol of the city."
This was the two leaders' third public appearance since Mamdani's landslide victory in last year's mayoral election. Mamdani revealed they discussed a proposal to build 12,000 housing units in New York. This initiative, first addressed in February, would require an estimated 21 billion USD in government funding. "We appreciate the President's commitment to the city," Mamdani added.
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US President Donald Trump (left) and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the press conference at Gracie Mansion on 21/9. *Photo: CNN* |
When questioned about the Trump administration's termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of immigrants, the 34-year-old Mayor affirmed he had expressed "very clear views on how we can keep New Yorkers safe."
Despite acknowledging "many disagreements," New York's leader affirmed his commitment to continued cooperation with President Trump. Mamdani emphasized, "We both have spoken about very different approaches, very different beliefs. I will continue to dialogue with the President and with anyone who can bring support to the people of this city."
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Trump and Mamdani converse at Gracie Mansion. *Photo: X/ Zohran Mamdani* |
The relationship between the Republican President and the Democratic Mayor has seen a notable shift. Trump had sharply criticized Mamdani before the New York Mayor took office in January. However, the two have since unexpectedly developed a friendly relationship.
Huyen Le (According to AFP, CNN)
