US President Donald Trump praises New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani after their latest meeting in Manhattan.
The two leaders held talks at Gracie Mansion on Monday. Their discussion covered immigration, housing and public safety.
The meeting was their third face-to-face meeting since Mamdani won the New York mayoral election. It was their first meeting at Gracie Mansion.
Trump had previously criticized Mamdani before he took office. Their recent meetings have instead shown a more cooperative tone.
During a joint appearance, Trump said Mamdani had the potential to become a great mayor. He also said the mayor was off to a start.
Trump’s comments marked a change from his earlier criticism of Mamdani. The two politicians still have major differences on several policy issues.
Mamdani said he appreciated Trump’s interest in New York City. He also said he would continue discussions with the federal government.
Immigration was among the major issues discussed during the meeting. Mamdani said he shared strong views about protecting New Yorkers.
The discussion came amid changes to immigration policies affecting migrants in the United States. Mamdani has previously criticized federal immigration enforcement policies.
The mayor also raised the issue of affordable housing in New York. He discussed the proposed redevelopment of Sunnyside Yard in Queens.
The project could create around 12,000 homes and 30,000 jobs. Mamdani has said the project would require major federal support.
The proposal is estimated to require more than $21 billion in federal funding. However, the latest meeting did not produce a firm funding commitment.
Instead, City Hall and White House teams agreed to continue technical discussions. The talks could focus on the project’s funding and development requirements.
Trump said the Sunnyside Yard project had been discussed for decades. He also indicated that the proposal would require federal involvement.
Mamdani acknowledged that he and Trump have significant political disagreements. However, he said cooperation could help deliver benefits for New Yorkers.
Trump praises Mamdani despite their different political positions. Their recent exchanges have attracted attention because of their earlier public disagreements.
The meeting also touched on press access and Trump’s restrictions on several media organizations. Mamdani said he supports access for all members of the press.
He said journalists should be able to engage regardless of their opinions or criticism. Trump dismissed questions about media coverage and an alleged boycott.
The discussion came as New York hosted events surrounding the United Nations General Assembly. Trump was visiting his hometown during the international gathering.
The latest meeting shows that both leaders remain willing to communicate. Their discussions have focused on areas where cooperation may be possible.
At the same time, their policy differences remain. Immigration and other national issues continue to separate their positions.
The two leaders have also kept discussions open on New York’s housing needs. The Sunnyside Yard proposal remains at an early stage.
Trump’s latest remarks further praises Mamdani’s potential as mayor. Mamdani, meanwhile, says he will continue discussions with anyone who can help New Yorkers.
Their evolving relationship is likely to remain a subject of public attention. Further talks could determine whether their cooperation produces concrete results for New York City.
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