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Trump-Mamdani Meeting: In a meeting that drew far more media attention than several of his recent interactions with global heads of state, US President Donald Trump hosted New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani at the Oval Office on Friday.

The conversation, expected to be tense, ideological, and combative, instead offered a rare glimpse of political restraint, humour, and a shared commitment to the city both men call home.

Here are the 10 key moments that defined their much-watched interaction:

1. War Nod To New York

Trump opened the meeting praising Mamdani’s “incredible race,” saying the two share one central goal: “We want this city of ours to do incredibly well.” Mamdani noted that even Trump voters in Queens had backed him, surprising the President.

2. Trump Says He Would Live In NYC

Countering conservative claims that billionaires would flee under a socialist mayor, Trump said he would “absolutely” live in New York under Mamdani. “Much more so after the meeting,” he added.

3. Trump Rejects ‘Jihadist’ Remark

When asked about Congresswoman Elise Stefanik calling Mamdani a “jihadist,” Trump dismissed it as overheated campaign talk. “I met a very rational person,” he said.

4. Trump Shields Mamdani From Tough Questions

President Trump was seen stepping in to deflect questions about Mamdani calling him a “despot” or a “fascist.” Laughing it off, he said, “I’ve been called much worse.”

5. Convergence on Affordability

Both leaders stressed the urgency of addressing rent, grocery and utility costs. Mamdani said the meeting focused on delivering affordability for 8.5 million New Yorkers, while Trump hinted at pressuring ConEdison to lower rates.

6. Acknowledging Their Ideological Divide

Trump noted, “There will be topics we disagree on, but we’ll come to a conclusion. It’s for the good of New York.”

7. Immigration: A Stark But Civil Difference

The two discussed immigration at length. Mamdani reaffirmed his commitment to protecting New Yorkers, including migrants. Trump reiterated his stance on safety and enforcement, saying safe streets are “non-negotiable.”

8. Mamdani’s Pro-Palestinian Views Surface

Mamdani restated his concerns about US support for Israel, speaking of “children being homeless for nine consecutive years.” Trump did not engage, but allowed the mayor-elect to present his position uninterrupted.

9. Who Leads The Democrats?

Asked if Mamdani was the “true leader” of the Democrats, Trump turned the question over to him. Mamdani responded that his focus was solely on New York City.

ALSO READ: 'You Can Say': Trump Jokes About Being Called 'Fascist' By Zohran Mamdani In White House

10. NYPD, Crime, and a Surprising Continuity

Despite his earlier “defund the police” advocacy, Mamdani has committed to maintaining NYPD staffing at 35,000 officers and retaining Commissioner Jessica Tisch, a move that surprised both critics and supporters.

ALSO READ: 'Communist Is Coming': Trump, Mamdani Meeting Sparks Buzz As White House Prepares For High-Stakes Meet

Both men face political pressures,  Trump from his visa policy controversy and ongoing scrutiny from opponents, and Mamdani from critics within his own party. Yet the Oval Office meeting projected a tone of productivity rather than confrontation. Trump summed it up simply, “If he could be a spectacular success, I’d be very happy.” Mamdani echoed the sentiment, “We found shared ground in our love for New York and the need to deliver for those who call it home.”

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