Trump Threatens NYC Funding Over Socialist Candidate
Former President Donald Trump has pledged to cut off federal funding for New York City should Zohran Mamdani, a “democratic socialist,” win the mayoral race. This intervention has heightened political tensions in the city.
Trump’s Warning
Trump issued a warning to the Fox News Channel, stating that if Mamdani is elected, he “had better do the right thing” or face a loss of federal aid. Trump labeled Mamdani a “communist” and expressed concern about the impact on New York. Mamdani, who defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, identifies as a “democratic socialist.”
“He’s a communist. I think it’s very bad for New York.”
—Donald Trump
Mamdani countered Trump’s claims, asserting they aimed to distract from his commitment to working-class people. He emphasized his focus on the needs of those Trump’s campaign had initially targeted.
The price of housing in NYC has nearly doubled in the past decade. Meanwhile, the real estate lobby has spent millions to try and stop policies that would drive down costs and ensure a good quality of life for working people. We’re going to take them on. We have to.
— Zohran Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) June 27, 2025
Mamdani’s Perspective
Mamdani is not concerned by the lack of endorsements from some leading Democrats. He believes that people are beginning to understand the significance of this election. He asserts his focus on working people will pave a path away from “authoritarianism in Washington DC.”
Historical Context
Should Mamdani be elected, he would become the first South Asian and Muslim to lead New York City. This would mark a significant shift in the city’s political landscape, which has historically been a Democratic stronghold. He cast himself as a “progressive Muslim immigrant” during the primary race and promised to be “Donald Trump’s worst nightmare.”
Mamdani’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has set him apart from many Democrats. He has declined to condemn the phrase “globalise the intifada.” This has drawn criticism from some Jewish leaders, who view it as antisemitic and a call to violence. He argues that he does not wish to determine what language is permissible or impermissible, given his view of Trump’s actions.
In his victory speech, Mamdani vowed to “reject Trump’s fascism.” The number of people identifying as socialist in the United States has increased from 15% in 2010 to 29% in 2024, according to Gallup (Gallup 2024).
The situation underscores the deep political divisions in the United States. The outcome of the New York City mayoral election could have major implications.