WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump met Thursday with New York Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani at the White House, prompting reporters to press the president on his past criticism of the lawmaker and Mamdani’s previous comments about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Before the meeting began, Trump was asked whether he still believes Mamdani is a communist, a label he has used in the past. Reporters also asked whether the president planned to respond to Mamdani’s earlier statement that he would have Netanyahu arrested if the Israeli leader entered New York City again.
“You referred to Mr. Mamdani as a Communist. Can you describe why you feel that way? And also, will you do anything to stop him from arresting Prime Minister Netanyahu if he visits New York?” one reporter asked.
“We didn’t discuss your second part of the question,” Trump said. “And on your first part, I mean, he’s got views that are out there, but who knows. We’re going to see what works. I feel very confident that he can do a very good job.”
The meeting was described as cordial and diplomatic. Trump said he was surprised to find that he and Mamdani “had a lot in common,” including an interest in keeping things affordable. Observers noted that both men appeared to be extending political courtesy, and time will tell how their relationship develops.
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