Trump to Mamdani: ‘We’re off to a bad start; be respectful’

Trump criticized Mamdani’s “angry” tone but left the door open to cooperation.

By World Israel News Staff

President Donald Trump warned Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected mayor of New York City, to tone down his hostile rhetoric toward Washington, hinting that cooperation could help ensure the city thrives.

During his victory speech on Tuesday night, Mamdani repeatedly criticized Trump, calling him an example of corporate greed and pledging to pursue a far-left, socialist agenda that includes rent freezes and free buses for residents.

Trump responded in an interview Wednesday evening with Fox News.

“I thought it was a very angry speech. Certainly angry toward me, and I think he should be nice to me. I’m sort of the one that has to approve a lot of things coming to him, so he’s off to a bad start,” the president said. “He has to be a little bit respectful of Washington because if he’s not, he doesn’t have a chance of succeeding.”

Trump said he wants Mamdani to succeed — not because he supports the progressive politician but because he wants to see New York City flourish.

“I would like to see the new mayor do well because I love New York. I really love New York,” he said.

Prior to Election Day, Trump had taken a more aggressive stance, warning on his Truth Social platform that he would cut federal funding to New York City if Mamdani were elected.

Hours before polls opened, Trump urged voters to support Andrew Cuomo, the former Democratic governor of New York running as an independent.

“Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice. You must vote for him, and hope he does a fantastic job. He is capable of it; Mamdani is not!”

Since Mamdani’s win, however, Trump’s tone appears to have softened, signaling that he may be willing to partner with the new Democratic mayor — as long as Mamdani reins in his attacks.