Donald Trump reportedly invited Zohran Mamdani to the White House during their latest meeting at Gracie Mansion. The unusual exchange followed a 90-minute discussion about immigration and New York’s housing needs.
The meeting marked another encounter between the president and New York City mayor, who had previously traded sharp political criticism. Their recent conversations had instead focused on finding areas where the federal government and city could work together.
Lip reader reveals what Donald Trump said to Zohran Mamdani
According to the New York Post, lip reader Jeremy Freeman interpreted Trump’s conversation with Mamdani during their September 21 meeting. Freeman said Trump told the mayor, “What I will say, we’ll look after you, but as I say, you’re doing great.” Trump then appeared to offer Mamdani a White House visit. “I’ll look after you, you look after the New Yorkers,” he said, according to Freeman’s interpretation. “And we can both make it work. I wanna support you, help me. Come with me to the White House – see how I work.”
The meeting covered immigration and the Sunnyside Yards housing project in Queens. Mamdani had revived the long-stalled project and sought federal support for its development. Afterward, Mamdani told reporters, “We appreciate the president’s commitment to the city.” He also said Trump shared memories of visiting Gracie Mansion during previous trips to New York.
Mamdani added that they discussed working together “to deliver a lower cost of living for New Yorkers.” The meeting marked the first presidential visit to the mayor’s official residence since Ronald Reagan visited Mayor Ed Koch in 1981. Trump also praised Mamdani during their public appearance. “So, hopefully you’re going to be a great one,” he said. “I’ll be able to say you’re going to be a great one, and you’re off to a good start.”
The two leaders had previously met at the White House in February. Trump described Mamdani as “a nice guy,” while Mamdani later called that meeting productive. Their relationship had developed despite earlier clashes. Mamdani previously called Trump a “fascist” and “despot,” while Trump had called Mamdani a communist.
The latest meeting took place while Trump visited New York for his scheduled United Nations General Assembly speech.
