Democratic New York City mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani made waves on Fox News Wednesday night when he stared directly into the camera and issued a message to President Donald Trump — declaring he wants a “partnership” with the president to “lower the cost of living” for New Yorkers.
But critics say Mamdani’s fiery comments weren’t about cooperation at all — they were about political theater and desperate attention from the national media.
🔴 A Radical Progressive With Big Promises
The 33-year-old state assemblyman — a rising star of the far-left — has shaken up New York’s political scene. Mamdani won the Democratic nomination over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who’s now running as an independent after multiple scandals and political downfall.
With Mayor Eric Adams dropping out in September, Mamdani currently leads in polls. He’s backed by Governor Kathy Hochul and championed by progressives who see him as the next socialist face of New York politics — a label that worries conservatives and working-class New Yorkers alike.
⚡ Taking Swipes at Trump, Cuomo, and Adams
In his interview with Fox News’ Martha MacCallum, Mamdani tore into what he called a “broken, corrupt political system,” promising to focus on “quality of life, public safety, and affordability.”
Then came the headline moment. Looking straight at the camera, Mamdani said:
“I will not be a mayor like Eric Adams, who calls you to stay out of jail. I won’t be Andrew Cuomo, who calls you to ask how to win an election. I can do those things on my own. But I will be a mayor ready to talk anytime about lowering costs for New Yorkers.”
Many viewers saw it as pure grandstanding — using Trump’s name for free publicity.
Mamdani also mocked Cuomo, saying he now watches Fox News “because it’s politically convenient,” adding:
“Andrew, you had your chance to lead this state, and you sold out working-class New Yorkers to billionaire donors.”
🇺🇸 Trump Responds — and He Doesn’t Hold Back
President Trump quickly fired back on Truth Social, calling Mamdani a “self-proclaimed New York City Communist” who will “be one of the best things to ever happen to our Republican Party.”
“He needs the money from me, as President, to fulfill his fake communist promises,” Trump wrote. “He won’t be getting any of it — so what’s the point of voting for him?”
Trump’s post went viral, with conservatives nationwide warning that Mamdani represents exactly what’s wrong with today’s Democratic Party — radical ideology wrapped in feel-good slogans.
💥 Controversy Over Hamas Comments
During the same interview, Mamdani was asked whether the terror group Hamas should lay down its weapons. Instead of condemning the killers of Americans and Israelis on October 7, Mamdani dodged:
“I don’t really have opinions on Hamas and Israel beyond the question of justice and safety,” he said.
The response sparked outrage. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) called it “one of the most stunning answers ever,” demanding to know why Democrat leaders like Kathy Hochul, Hakeem Jeffries, and Chuck Schumer continue to support him.
For many voters, Mamdani’s refusal to condemn Hamas is a deal-breaker.
🗽 Media Spin and Liberal Praise
While conservatives saw danger, left-wing media rushed to defend him. Obama’s former press aide Johanna Maska praised Mamdani for “recognizing institutional problems,” though she admitted his promises may be unrealistic.
Meanwhile, liberal commentators on X (formerly Twitter) cheered his attacks on Trump, Adams, and Cuomo — calling them “bold” and “refreshing.” But for middle-class and older New Yorkers struggling with inflation, rent, and safety concerns, Mamdani’s “free buses” and “social justice” pledges feel out of touch with reality.
⚖️ Election Showdown: Socialism vs. Sanity
On Thursday, Mamdani will face off against Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in a televised debate before the November 4 election.
With crime rising, taxes surging, and New Yorkers fleeing the city in record numbers, voters may finally decide whether they want more failed progressive experiments — or a return to law, order, and economic sanity.
As Trump put it: “He won’t get the money. So what’s the point of voting for him?”