The US President warned that federal money could be cut off if Zohran Mamdani wins the upcoming mayoral election. His comments have shaken the race, which is already one of the most tense and unpredictable contests in years.
Donald Trump turned his focus directly to New York City politics, suggesting that he may restrict financial support to the city if the election results are not in his favor. For many, this is seen as an extreme and unprecedented move. The statement has sparked anger among voters and politicians, who believe that the city should not be used as a bargaining chip in political battles.
The race for mayor shifted dramatically when sitting mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, officially stepped out of the re-election campaign on September 30. With his exit, the contest tightened into a fierce three-way race. The leading figure is Zohran Mamdani, a progressive Democrat who critics have labeled as a socialist. Polls currently place him at the top, though the competition remains heated.
At just 33 years old, Zohran Mamdani has quickly built momentum.
His popularity has soared among younger and progressive voters, who see him as a voice for change. Yet, with New Yorkers heading to the polls on November 4, the final result remains uncertain. The other contenders, former governor Andrew Cuomo, now running as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa, are working to gain ground in the final stretch of the campaign.
Mamdani’s campaign platform is filled with bold reforms. He has promised to introduce a free citywide bus system, expand universal childcare for children as young as six weeks old, and impose rent freezes designed to protect tenants from drastic increases in housing costs. These promises have resonated strongly with working families and renters across the city.
Beyond these proposals, Zohran Mamdani has also committed to holding landlords accountable for negligence and to tripling the production of union-built, rent-stabilized housing. For many supporters, these ideas offer real hope for addressing the city’s long-standing housing crisis.
Still, the ambitious nature of Mamdani’s plans has sparked criticism. Opponents argue that the proposals are unrealistic given the city’s $115 billion budget and the challenge of managing more than 300,000 workers. The New York Times has described the platform as impractical, while Andrew Cuomo has argued that Mamdani is too inexperienced and too radical to govern such a complex city.
Trump’s attacks, however, went far beyond policy. He not only called Zohran Mamdani a communist but also suggested that the candidate may not even be in the country legally. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed, “A lot of people are saying he’s here illegally. We’re going to look at everything… We’ll have to arrest him.” His words added fuel to an already volatile race.
In the weeks leading up to election day, Trump escalated his rhetoric further. He warned voters that he would block federal funding if Zohran Mamdani became mayor. This threat shook both political observers and residents of the city.
On Truth Social, Trump posted: “Self proclaimed New York City Communist, Zohran Mamdani, who is running for Mayor, will prove to be one of the best things to ever happen to our great Republican Party. He is going to have problems with Washington like no Mayor in the history of our once great City. Remember, he needs the money from me, as President, in order to fulfill all of his FAKE Communist promises. He won’t be getting any of it, so what’s the point of voting for him?”
He continued, “This ideology has failed, always, for thousands of years. It will fail again, and that’s guaranteed! President DJT.”
Trump’s shocking threat immediately drew backlash. Politicians, activists, and voters condemned the remarks, calling them an attack on democratic choice. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont was among the first to respond.
Taking to Twitter, Sanders wrote: “Trump wants to withhold money from New York City if Zohran Mamdani wins. Really? Because nothing says ‘law and order’ like the President extorting his own city if they don’t vote how he wants.” His statement captured the outrage shared by many who saw the remarks as a dangerous abuse of power.
Despite the storm of criticism, Trump’s words have placed a spotlight on Mamdani’s candidacy. For his supporters, the attacks from Trump serve only to highlight the progressive candidate’s growing influence. For his critics, the idea of a Zohran Mamdani-led New York raises questions of practicality and governance.
What remains clear is that the election has become more than just a local contest. With national figures weighing in, the race is being closely watched across the country. The outcome could reshape the future direction of New York City and influence the broader political landscape.
If Zohran Mamdani secures victory, he would not only bring his ambitious platform into office but also make history as the city’s first Muslim mayor. His win would mark a significant moment in New York politics, symbolizing both generational and cultural change.
The days leading up to November 4 are expected to be filled with tension, debate, and fierce campaigning. Whether Trump’s shocking threat will sway voters or backfire remains to be seen. What is certain is that New Yorkers face a historic choice that could define their city’s future for years to come.
