President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened to block federal funding to New York City if progressive mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani “doesn’t behave himself” if elected.
Speaking to Fox News’ Maria Bartiromo, Trump labeled Mamdani a “pure communist” and said, “He’s going to have to do the right thing or they’re not getting any money.” The federal government sends over $100 billion annually to the city through various programs, according to the city comptroller.
Mamdani, a democratic socialist, rejected Trump’s characterization during an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press. “No, I am not [a communist],” he said. He defended his platform to raise taxes on the wealthy and eliminate billionaires, while criticizing Trump’s personal attacks.
“I’ve had to get used to the president talking about how I look, how I sound, where I’m from — all to distract from what I’m fighting for,” Mamdani said.
