President Donald Trump wasted no time responding to newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s fiery victory speech — setting the stage for what could become a fierce political feud.
On election night in Brooklyn, excitement filled the air as 34-year-old Mamdani celebrated his historic win. The city’s first Muslim and first South Asian mayor, he declared, “New York will remain a city of immigrants — built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and, as of tonight, led by an immigrant.”
He then turned his attention to the president directly: “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you — turn the volume up!” The crowd roared, and the moment quickly went viral.
By Wednesday, Trump fired back in an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier, calling Mamdani’s comments “angry” and “very dangerous.” He added, “He has to be a little bit respectful of Washington, because if he’s not, he doesn’t have a chance of succeeding.”
The tension between the two isn’t new. During the campaign, Trump labeled Mamdani a “communist,” despite the mayor identifying as a democratic socialist. He also warned that if Mamdani won, New York City would receive only the “minimum required” federal support.
Later that day, speaking at a Miami business event, Trump shifted his focus to another rival — California Governor Gavin Newsom — unveiling a new jab: “Maybe that should be his nickname — Slimy. Slimy Newscum, right?” The audience erupted in laughter.
Newsom’s two-word reply on X was swift: “You lost.” Mamdani, meanwhile, has stayed silent, though his speech made clear he intends to stand his ground.
As both leaders dig in, the clash between Trump and Mamdani could shape not only New York’s next chapter but also the broader national political narrative.