Trump meets with Mamdani ahead of U.N. address

On September 21, US President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani met at Gracie Mansion, discussing various issues including immigration enforcement and a major housing project. Despite previous criticism from Trump, the meeting was cordial with both acknowledging press coverage disparities but welcoming all media outlets to their event. Trump defended his decision to ban certain media from the White House by saying, "They never boycott me," pointing out the presence of many journalists at Gracie Mansion. Mamdani emphasized inclusivity for all members of the press and highlighted the need for federal support on housing initiatives like the Sunnyside Yards redevelopment project, which aims to create 12,000 homes and generate 30,000 jobs in New York City. This unexpected alliance between Trump and Mamdani has confused observers across the political spectrum but complicates Republican messaging ahead of the midterms.