1. Why was this meeting considered a surprise?

The meeting between President Trump and Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani was expected to be hostile but turned into a "lovefest." Mamdani, a democratic socialist, had previously called Trump a "fascist," while Trump had mocked him as a "little communist." Instead of clashing, Trump praised Mamdani as a "rational person" and expressed surprise at how much they agreed on economic issues. 

2. What common ground did they find? 

Both leaders focused heavily on the concept of "affordability" for working-class people. Trump noted that "the new word is affordability" and expressed interest in Mamdani’s plans to expand housing. They bonded over their shared status as populist outsiders who rose to power despite low expectations from their respective party establishments. 

3. How are other Republicans reacting to this alliance?

The meeting shocked the political world and drew mixed reactions from Trump’s allies. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Trump loyalist running for New York governor, publicly disagreed with the President’s praise, stating she does not want Mamdani to succeed. Meanwhile, former adviser Steve Bannon warned that Republicans underestimate Mamdani at their peril, viewing his victory as a "wake-up call. 

4. What does the meeting mean politically?

The meeting temporarily eased concerns about federal intervention in NYC, but political tensions remain. It showcased both leaders’ populist appeal and ability to leverage personal rapport. For Mamdani, it was a strategic move to protect city interests while demonstrating pragmatism to voters and opponents alike.