On Monday, New York City’s Democratic Socialist mayor, Zohran Mamdani, stepped out of Gracie Mansion to meet President Donald Trump, marking the first presidential visit to the mayor’s home in 44 years. The two leaders exchanged a brief handshake before heading to a private breakfast in the mansion’s dining room. While Trump is known for branding socialists as a political threat, Mamdani remained calm, stressing that the conversation was rooted in mutual affection for the city. Trump praised Mamdani, calling him a “good start” and “great mayor” ahead of the upcoming city council meetings.
But the meeting’s true significance lies in its potential to bridge ideological divides over concrete city projects. Kimmel’s late‑night interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live! pressed Mamdani about the surprisingly warm rapport. Mamdani dismissed the notion that the two had “charmed” each other, noting that they still have many disagreements. He added that the only common ground was their shared love for New York.
Kimmel asked if the duo exchange texts, to which Mamdani replied, “We do, from time to time.” He elaborated that the messages focus on city improvements, citing Sunnyside Yard as a priority. “It’s about delivering for the city,” Mamdani said. He declined Kimmel’s request for a selfie, turning the host down with a quick, “I love housing more.”
The conversation highlighted a potential partnership on Brooklyn’s Sunnyside Yard redevelopment, a project that could create thousands of jobs for local residents. A city worker at the yard, who asked to remain anonymous, said the mayor’s engagement with the president could accelerate funding approvals. The worker also noted that the project would bring new housing units to the neighborhood.
Both officials said they will keep the lines of communication open as the city prepares for the next budget cycle. The next public appearance of Mamdani and Trump will likely be at a City Hall briefing on housing reform.