Donald Trump Suddenly Turns on Zohran Mamdani: ‘Destroying New York'
President Donald Trump on Thursday criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's policies, saying he believes the city is on the wrong economic path and questioning whether federal support should continue under the current approach.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticized Mamdani's tax policies, saying he believes they are contributing to an economic decline in the city and warning that conditions could worsen without changes in leadership. The remarks come after several months of cordial relations between the two leaders, despite sharp ideological differences.
The president posted, “Sadly, Mayor Mamdani is DESTROYING New York! It has no chance! The United States of America should not contribute to its failure. It will only get WORSE. The TAX, TAX, TAX Policies are SO WRONG. People are fleeing. They must change their ways, AND FAST. History has proven, THIS "STUFF" JUST DOESN'T WORK. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DJT”
Newsweek has reached out to Mamdani’s office via email on Thursday afternoon for comment.
From Campaign Attacks to White House Meetings
Trump's sharp criticism marks a reversal from what had been a notably warmer relationship between the two leaders following Mamdani's election as mayor. During the 2025 mayoral campaign, Trump repeatedly attacked Mamdani, a self‑described democratic socialist, while Mamdani accused Trump of authoritarian behavior.
That exchange softened after Mamdani won the race. In November, the mayor‑elect met Trump at the White House, a visit both sides characterized as productive. Trump congratulated Mamdani publicly and said he was willing to work with him on shared concerns such as affordability and public safety. Mamdani later said the two leaders were clear about their disagreements but shared a desire to see New York succeed.
The mayor returned to Washington in February for further discussions with the administration. Mamdani has since described his relationship with Trump as "honest and direct," saying the two remain in contact despite deep ideological differences.
Mamdani's First 100 Days and a Progressive Agenda
Trump's remarks come as Mamdani has passed the 100‑day mark in office and moved aggressively to advance the progressive agenda that defined his campaign. Mamdani has embraced democratic socialism as a governing philosophy, arguing that greater government intervention is needed to address affordability, housing shortages and access to public services.
In his first months, Mamdani has pointed to steps to expand child care access, speed bus service and pursue long‑term housing development. He has also pushed for zoning changes intended to increase housing supply and reduce costs, proposals he has discussed with both state and federal officials.
At the same time, some of Mamdani's most high‑profile campaign promises - including a rent freeze and potential tax changes affecting high earners and businesses - remain unresolved or face resistance. Those proposals have drawn criticism from business groups and conservative lawmakers, who argue they could drive investment and residents out of the city.
Why Trump Is Escalating Now
Trump's criticism appears to target that agenda, particularly Mamdani's stance on taxes and the mayor's broader economic approach. The president has frequently argued that high taxes and expansive government programs harm major cities, a theme he has revisited throughout his presidency.
Trump, who built his real estate career in New York, has often framed Democratic leadership in large cities as economically damaging. Despite Trump's warning about federal support, the administration has not announced any changes to funding or cooperation with New York City.
The episode highlights the fragility of the previously cordial Trump‑Mamdani relationship and underscores how quickly cooperation can give way to criticism as Mamdani doubles down on policies that place him at odds with the White House.
This is a breaking news article. Updates to follow.
Newsweek's reporters and editors used Martyn, our Al assistant, to help produce this story. Learn more about Martyn.
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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 5:43 PM.