Trump Expresses Concern Over Zohran Mamdani's NYC Mayoral Win While White House Stresses Potential Struggles Ahead

President Donald Trump has expressed strong concerns over the rise of Zohran Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, following Mamdani's victory in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the president believes Mamdani’s policies could severely damage the city’s future, which Trump has often referred to as a place he holds “near and dear.”

The remarks came during a press briefing on Monday, where Leavitt addressed a flurry of questions from reporters, particularly regarding Mamdani’s primary win and the backlash surrounding some of his political views. When asked about recent controversial calls for Mamdani to be deported or denaturalized, Leavitt clarified that Trump himself has not made such suggestions, but strongly opposes Mamdani’s platform, describing it as dangerous for New York’s stability and prosperity.

Leavitt described Mamdani’s ideology as “radical,” saying his policies would “completely crush” the city. She emphasized that while the president is open to working across party lines, a working relationship with Mamdani would be “difficult” due to a fundamental clash in values. Trump, she said, supports law and order, low taxes, and the American work ethic—principles he sees Mamdani as rejecting.

Despite the criticism, Leavitt reiterated that Trump remains open to collaboration. “The president works with Democrats, Republicans, independents, and even those on the far left when it's in America’s interest,” she said. “But working with someone who essentially rejects the very foundation of what makes this country great would be a real challenge.”

Zohran Mamdani, who currently serves in the New York State Assembly, pulled off a major upset last week by defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo and several other high-profile candidates in a crowded Democratic primary race. His win has shaken up the political landscape in New York, as he represents a far-left shift from traditional Democratic leadership in the city.

In addition to policy concerns, Mamdani is also facing backlash over his refusal to condemn the phrase “globalize the intifada”—a slogan critics associate with antisemitic violence. During a recent appearance on national television, liberal commentator Donny Deutsch openly criticized Mamdani, expressing outrage at the candidate’s vague response and lack of condemnation. Deutsch referenced both the October 7 terrorist attacks and the Boulder, Colorado, shootings to illustrate the deeply disturbing connotation the phrase carries, especially within the Jewish community.

“Mamdani’s response—claiming the phrase ‘means different things to different people’—is not just tone-deaf but dangerous,” Deutsch said. “When Jewish people say something frightens us, it should matter. If any other group expressed fear over a violent slogan, politicians would distance themselves immediately. So why not now?”

Mamdani had multiple opportunities to clearly denounce the phrase during a national interview on Meet the Press, but repeatedly chose not to. His stance has raised alarms among not only political opponents but also members of the broader public who fear his positions may incite division at a time when the city needs unity.

As New York City heads toward a general election, Mamdani’s surprising ascent and his unapologetic political style are fueling intense debate. With Trump and the White House now weighing in, the race for mayor has taken on a sharper national tone—one that reflects deeper ideological battles about the direction of the city, and perhaps the country.