‘Fascist’ vs ‘Jihadist’: Past Insults Revisited During Warm Trump–Mamdani Meeting

United States President Donald Trump on Friday met newly elected New York City mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani — a politician he has repeatedly derided in the past — for a customary introductory meeting that unfolded far more warmly than expected.

Trump had previously labeled Mamdani a “communist lunatic” and a “total nut job,” while the Democrat had once declared himself Trump’s “worst nightmare.” But inside the Oval Office, both men struck a conciliatory tone, with Trump even praising the mayor’s goals and demeanor.

“I think he is going to surprise some conservative people,” Trump told reporters, adding that he planned to “help” Mamdani make New York “strong and safe.”

Mamdani, for his part, said he appreciated that the meeting focused not on disagreements but on the “shared purpose” of serving New Yorkers.

Key moments from the Trump–Mamdani meeting

Trump rejects ‘jihadist’ label
Asked about Republican Elise Stefanik calling Mamdani a “jihadist,” Trump dismissed the remark, saying such comments are often made during campaigns. Calling Mamdani “very rational,” Trump said he believed the mayor wanted to make New York “greater than ever before” and added, “I’ll be cheering for him.”

Press frenzy over the meeting
Trump noted the unusual media attention surrounding the encounter. “The press has eaten this thing up,” he said, adding that the crowd outside was larger than at many of his meetings with world leaders. He described the meeting as “great.”

On Mamdani calling him a ‘fascist’
When reporters asked Mamdani whether he still believed Trump was a “fascist,” Trump interjected playfully: “That’s okay, you can say it.” Mamdani affirmed the remark, and Trump shrugged it off: “I don’t mind.”

Mamdani on working-class priorities
Mamdani said New York’s working class had long been “left behind” and vowed to put them “back at the heart of our politics.” Highlighting transit affordability, he noted that “one in five can’t afford $2.90 for the train or bus.” Trump backed him, saying some of their ideas “are really the same.”

Would Trump live in NYC under Mamdani?
Asked whether he would feel comfortable living in New York under the new mayor, Trump replied without hesitation: “Yeah, I would — especially after the meeting.”