In a surprising turn of events, US President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met in the Oval Office, setting aside their previous animosities for a productive discussion focused on shared goals. The meeting, which took place on Friday, marked their first direct interaction since Mamdani's historic election victory. Both leaders, who had previously exchanged harsh criticisms, appeared relaxed and engaged, emphasizing their commitment to addressing the pressing issues of affordability and safety in New York City.

During the meeting, Trump praised Mamdani, calling him impressive and expressing confidence that he would exceed expectations. "We’re going to be helping him, to make everybody’s dream come true — having a strong and very safe New York," Trump stated. Mamdani reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting the importance of their shared purpose in serving New Yorkers. "What I really appreciate about the president is that the meeting focused not on places of disagreement, which there are many, but on our shared purpose in serving New Yorkers," he said.

The discussion primarily revolved around the high cost of living in New York, including issues related to housing, groceries, and utilities. Both leaders acknowledged that these concerns were central to their political campaigns. Trump remarked, "Some of his ideas are really the same ideas that I have," while Mamdani noted that he specifically requested the meeting to explore ways to make the city more livable.

Despite their past exchanges, which included Trump labeling Mamdani a "communist lunatic" and Mamdani calling Trump a "fascist," the atmosphere during the meeting was notably friendly. Trump even defended Mamdani when reporters pressed him about the mayor-elect's previous comments. "I’ve been called much worse than a despot," Trump joked, showcasing a lighter side to their interaction.

The meeting also touched on immigration, a significant area of disagreement. Mamdani expressed his commitment to protecting New Yorkers, particularly the migrant population, while Trump reiterated his hardline stance on immigration enforcement. However, both leaders agreed on the necessity of a safe New York, with Trump stating, "Ultimately, a safe New York is going to be a great New York."

As the meeting concluded, Trump expressed his desire to support Mamdani's administration, stating, "I expect to be helping him, not hurting him." He also indicated that he would be comfortable living in New York under Mamdani's leadership, a notable shift from their previous rhetoric.

In a final note, both leaders expressed hope for future collaboration, with Trump stating, "If this city could be unbelievable — if he could be a spectacular success — I’d be very happy." The meeting, which many anticipated would be contentious, instead highlighted a potential for cooperation on key issues affecting New Yorkers.