NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Declines Jimmy Kimmel's Attempt to Elicit Trump Criticism
Mamdani emphasized policy and New York's needs, deflecting Kimmel's efforts to focus on Trump.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live this week, where he largely sidestepped host Jimmy Kimmel's repeated attempts to steer the conversation toward criticism of former President Donald Trump. Mamdani focused instead on housing policy and his commitment to New York City.
About six minutes into the interview, after Mamdani had been discussing policies enacted during his first year in office, Kimmel turned the conversation to Trump. Kimmel expressed surprise at the cordial nature of Mamdani's relationship with the former president, questioning if Mamdani had strategically sought to "charm him." Mamdani acknowledged that he and Trump communicate via text from time to time. When Kimmel proposed taking a selfie together and sending it to Trump, Mamdani humorously responded, "I love you, but I love housing more." He explained that he had invited Trump to Gracie Mansion on September 21 to discuss a stalled housing development in Queens that could yield approximately 12,000 homes.
Mamdani also deflected Kimmel's suggestion that he act as mayor of Los Angeles while Kimmel was filming in Brooklyn. "It's three words for me always. It's New York City," Mamdani stated. The mayor acknowledged disagreements with the former president but stressed the importance of cooperation with the federal government for funding. "One thing we do agree on is this city, how much we love this city," Mamdani said regarding their initial meeting in November. He framed that meeting as an effort to focus on "New Yorkers" rather than themselves.
Kimmel has a history of criticizing Trump. The late-night host was reprimanded by the FCC and suspended by Disney in September 2025 for comments made about Trump. He returned to air on September 23, 2025, and is reportedly in contract negotiations with ABC. Mamdani's appearance occurred as Kimmel is filming a special edition of his show in Brooklyn. Kimmel commented on the warm reception Mamdani received from the Brooklyn audience, contrasting it with the reception he suggested Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass might receive.