Trump praises Mamdani's 'great potential' at Gracie Mansion meeting

President Trump publicly praised New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's "great potential" during a Monday meeting at Gracie Mansion, a surprising shift from their previously tense relationship. The joint press conference occurred ahead of the United Nations General Assembly session. Trump stated he wants Mamdani to be a "great mayor" for the benefit of New York and the country, despite past criticism of the democratic socialist's policies. Social media users focused on Mamdani's apparent discomfort during the exchange, with some describing him as "flustered" or "visibly unhappy" during the event. Mamdani said he raised the status of Haitian immigrants in the US during the meeting, calling it "productive." The Trump administration has ended Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, though Trump did not commit to action on the issue.