In his first press conference since winning the New York City mayoral race, Zohran Mamdani, the 34-year-old mayor-elect, pledged to confront the challenges posed by the Trump administration while addressing the city’s affordability crisis. Speaking in Queens on Wednesday, Mamdani outlined his transition team and emphasized his commitment to standing up to what he described as an ‘authoritarian administration.’ Trump, who has labeled Mamdani a ‘communist,’ hinted at withholding federal funding from New York City if Mamdani’s policies were implemented. On Election Night, Trump posted ‘AND SO IT BEGINS!’ on his Truth Social account, signaling the start of a new political rivalry. Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, has promised to tax millionaires to fund expanded social programs, including free buses and rent stabilization. Despite the tension, Mamdani expressed a willingness to engage with the Trump administration on issues like reducing the cost of living. His transition team includes notable figures such as Lina Khan, former Federal Trade Commission chair, and Maria Torres-Springer, a former deputy mayor. Mamdani also confirmed he would retain Jessica Tisch as NYPD commissioner, addressing concerns about public safety. As he prepares for his January 2026 inauguration, Mamdani’s dynamic with Trump is expected to shape his early administration, particularly regarding immigration enforcement. ‘I’m looking forward to showing the power of an example here in New York City,’ Mamdani told ABC News, contrasting his approach with Trump’s policies.
Mamdani thinks Trump threats are ‘inevitable’, but it won’t stop his plans to lower cost of living
