Trump: I want Mamdani to be a great mayor

‘The Five’ panel discussed President Donald Trump’s recent meeting with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at Gracie Mansion. The conversation revolved around key moments, the issues they tackled, and what impact this could have on the relationship between the White House and New York City.

With the midterms just six weeks away, Trump is adding complexity to one of the main arguments Republicans have against Democrats. He praised Mayor Mamdani warmly despite frequently warning voters about potential socialism and communism on the left.

“I want him to be a great mayor, and he’s certainly got potential, got great potential,” Trump said while patting Mamdani on the back after their meeting. They discussed cost of living and housing concerns, which hasn’t sat well with some Republicans who are trying to secure their hold on the House and Senate.

“All of it is self-inflicted, off-message, not helpful,” a GOP strategist, who requested anonymity to speak candidly, told Fox News Digital. “These candidates in tight races are not benefitting from this at all.”

Mamdani tells Trump banned news outlets are welcome at NYC meeting

Another Republican consultant, also speaking anonymously, expressed concern, stating, “This is a president who seems to be in a self-indulgent phase. It doesn’t look like he cares about winning; it’s all off key.” Just over a week ago, at a GOP gathering in Dallas, Trump remarked on a “communist” takeover within the Democratic Party.

“In state after state, the Democrat establishment has been overthrown and replaced by crazed lunatics and radicals,” he stated, referring to the party’s left wing.

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Fast forward to Monday, and Trump held his third meeting with Mamdani, who made history as the first socialist and first Muslim mayor of New York City.

A third GOP strategist, also wishing to remain anonymous, noted, “It seems like he keeps undermining his message by making it about how radical the left is while appearing with them.” This sentiment was echoed by some Trump supporters who took to social media in frustration. Laura Loomer, a well-known right-wing activist, expressed distress over the meeting, stating it demoralized her as a staunch Trump supporter.

“We were told to FIGHT communism, but there he is, meeting with a self-identified communist,” she lamented. “It leaves the base very angry.”

Some, however, defended Trump’s approach. Alex Bruesewitz, a former aide to Trump, remarked on social media, “I don’t understand the ‘Republicans’ upset about Trump’s friendly relationship with Mamdani. It’s good to have relationships with those you disagree with.” This highlights a division within the party regarding Trump’s actions.

Republicans are contending with traditional challenges, such as inflation and low approval ratings for Trump, while trying to shift the narrative to frame the midterms as a choice election against far-left candidates.

Some strategists, like veteran GOP consultant Dave Carney, are less worried about the impact of Trump’s meeting with Mamdani. He pointed out that “the federal government has to work with the city,” implying that Trump’s presidential duties necessitate this kind of engagement.

Carney added that while there are far-left candidates, Mamdani has not yet been elected statewide. Another strategist highlighted that the meeting might anger some conservatives, but ultimately, it may not carry significant political weight.

Despite the tensions, the overall view among some GOP members suggests that Trump appreciates Mamdani’s political skill. Fox News reached out to the White House for commentary but did not receive a response by the time this report was published.