Mamdani shows political courage by maintaining direct communication with Trump while still standing firm on principles.
196D AGOLOCALNYC MAYOR ZOHRAN MAMDANIPARTY POLITICS
Mamdani and Trump Have Been Texting — But Their Relationship May Be Blowing Up
What's the gist?
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and President Trump have been texting since their post-election Oval Office meeting in November, but their relationship hit a rough patch after Mamdani called Trump to oppose the U.S. strikes on Venezuela.
Context
After defeating Eric Adams in the NYC mayoral race, democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani visited the Oval Office in November 2025, where he and Trump — who had called Mamdani a "communist" during the campaign — surprised observers by hitting it off. They exchanged phone numbers and have been texting since. Topics included affordable housing in NYC. However, when the U.S. attacked Venezuela and captured Nicolás Maduro in early January 2026, Mamdani called Trump directly to register his opposition. Trump later told the New York Times he was "surprised" and "thought it was awfully quick for him to be criticizing," adding that while he "did" have a good relationship with Mamdani, "he hit me sooner than I thought." Mamdani downplayed the tension, saying "the president and I have always been honest and direct with each other about places of disagreement."
Positive takes
The texting relationship proves Mamdani can work across the aisle for New Yorkers' benefit, like discussing affordable housing.
Calling Trump directly to oppose the Venezuela strikes shows Mamdani won't be bullied into silence — exactly the leadership NYC needs.
Negative takes
Mamdani risks alienating progressives by cozying up to Trump and exchanging friendly texts.
Criticizing the president so early in his term could jeopardize federal funding and cooperation NYC desperately needs.
Trump's use of past tense — 'I did have a good relationship' — suggests Mamdani may have burned a bridge over Venezuela.
— by VoiceWhat's Voice? Read this.
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