Mamdani faces early tests before taking office

New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, 34, faces urgent tests even before his Jan. 1 swearing-in: fending off President Trump’s threats and funding warnings, advancing a $6 billion universal child care plan, and delivering a rent freeze for nearly one million stabilized apartments. He vows to defend sanctuary city policies in court with state allies, says he’s open to meeting Trump to talk cost of living, and seeks alliances to pass his agenda. After sharp campaign attacks, he appealed for unity, pledging to stand with Jewish New Yorkers against antisemitism, as he sets a course for the Police Department.