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After weeks of branding Zohran Mamdani an extremist, President Trump privately called the New York mayor-elect a slick, talented politician, even as both men brace for a clash. Trump has floated helping the city yet threatened to curb federal funds, a move courts have repeatedly rejected over immigration, while Mamdani vows to fight back, expand the city’s legal team and defend LGBTQ residents. The White House watched his victory speech; Trump allies see him as a convenient foil, even as some urge a softer approach. Strategist David Axelrod warned against trading insults.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.