WASHINGTON, June 30 — In a heated reaction that aired Sunday, former U.S. President Donald Trump took direct aim at Zohran Mamdani, labeling the newly victorious Democratic primary winner for New York City mayor a “pure communist.” The remarks come in the wake of Mamdani’s unexpected win, which has sent ripples through political circles across the country.
Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman and immigrant born in Uganda, pulled off what many are calling a political upset—defeating a long-established figure with deep ties to the party. His grassroots campaign, built around progressive policies like affordable housing, free daycare, and public transit, clearly resonated with voters feeling the weight of New York’s high cost of living.
Trump, speaking on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures,” didn’t mince words. “He’s a radical leftist lunatic,” he said. “If he does get in, I’ll be president—and he’s going to have to play by the rules, or New York won’t see a dime.”
The comments didn’t go unnoticed.
Appearing later on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Mamdani stood firm, brushing off Trump’s insults and setting the record straight: “No, I am not a communist. I’m a democratic socialist, and I believe in building a city where everyone—not just the wealthy—can thrive.”
He went further, addressing what he believes is at the heart of Trump’s attacks: fear of change and a desperate attempt to distract. “He wants to talk about my name, my background, my voice—anything but the issues. But I won’t be silenced,” Mamdani said. “I’m here to fight for the working people he promised to stand up for but abandoned.”
While Mamdani’s primary victory was powerful, the race is far from over. With current Mayor Eric Adams running as an independent and former Governor Andrew Cuomo hinting at a possible unaffiliated run, November’s general election promises to be a complex and highly charged battle.
Still, one thing is clear: Mamdani’s voice has struck a chord, and in a city as dynamic and diverse as New York, that may be just the beginning.
