MIAMI: President Donald Trump on Wednesday criticized the election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s next mayor, claiming the United States had lost “sovereignty” and labeling the nation’s largest city a potential “communist refuge.”
Speaking to supporters a day after Mamdani’s convincing victory, Trump said, “We’ll take care of it,” without providing specifics, and warned that the city could become a socialist stronghold under the 34-year-old mayor.
Trump Highlights Political Choice
Trump framed Mamdani’s victory as a choice between “communism and common sense,” and contrasted an “economic nightmare” with an “economic miracle.” He also suggested that Miami could serve as a refuge for residents fleeing New York’s new leadership.
Trump expressed willingness to offer US assistance to Mamdani, provided the mayor respects Washington’s support and works cooperatively.
Mamdani’s Historic Win
Mamdani, a democratic socialist, became the first Muslim mayor of New York City, defeating Democratic former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Despite facing intense scrutiny over his policies and heritage, Mamdani celebrated his victory as a sign of political change.
“If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that gave rise to him,” Mamdani said during his victory speech. “And if there is any way to terrify a despot, it is by dismantling the very conditions that allowed him to accumulate power.”
National Implications
Mamdani’s win, alongside Democratic victories in Virginia and New Jersey, signals a potential shift in the national political mood ahead of next year’s midterm elections, when control of Congress will be decided.
Voters in California also approved a redistricting proposition, aiming to reduce gerrymandering — another blow to Republican efforts influenced by Trump-era policies.
Trump Blames Government Shutdown and Ballot Absence
Trump attributed Republican setbacks partly to the record-long federal government shutdown, which stretched into its sixth week, and noted that his absence from the ballot may have contributed to poor results. In a post on Truth Social, he cited anonymous pollsters claiming the shutdown was “a big factor, negative for the Republicans.”
Despite the losses, Trump maintained a combative stance toward Democrats, warning that they were prepared to “destroy the country” if allowed.
Mamdani Fires Back
Mamdani immediately challenged Trump in his victory speech, telling the former president:
“Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up!”
The mayor emphasized that New York City’s voters had sent a clear message: dismantling the conditions that allowed Trump’s rise is key to stopping him and preventing similar future leaders.
