Newsroom, November 22, 2025: The White House sit-down between President Donald Trump and New York City's freshly elected mayor Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American Muslim in the role, unfolded as a tense yet revealing exchange, blending protocol with pointed barbs.
Trump opened with congratulations but quickly pivoted to "sovereignty" concerns, while Mamdani pushed for federal aid on housing and climate. Key moments included Trump's quip on Mamdani's age "You're younger than my ties!" and a frosty handshake that lasted three seconds longer than usual, captured in viral clips.
Mamdani raised NYC's migrant crisis, seeking funds that Trump tied to border policy compliance. Trump countered with praise for Mamdani's "energy" but warned against "radical" rent freezes. A lighter note came when Trump offered a Diet Coke, joking, "no kings here," referencing pre-election protests.
Mamdani declined, sipping water instead. The 45-minute talk ended with a joint photo of Trump's hand on Mamdani's shoulder, signalling pragmatic ties despite divides.
