'Kimmel' guest Mamdani marks third meeting with Trump in rare bromance

Beyond political opposites, an 'unlikely closeness'

New York Mayor 'Zohran Mamdani', a democratic socialist widely seen as belonging to the radical left, appeared on a late-night talk show and disclosed his close relationship with President 'Donald Trump', who stands at the opposite end of the political spectrum.

According to major foreign media outlets, including the New York Post and Variety, on the 29th local time, Mayor Mamdani appeared on ABC's flagship program 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', which aired the previous night. He said, "The president and I disagree on a number of issues, but we are completely aligned on how much we love this city, New York."

He added, "Since our first meeting last November, our conversations have focused not on political calculations but solely on substantive discussions for New Yorkers. Whether at the White House or 'Gracie Mansion', we have looked for ways to improve life in New York regardless of the setting," he stressed.

As political polarization deepens, the two men's 'bromance' has become the biggest topic in New York political circles. Beginning with a White House meeting last November, they have met three times in total — in February this year and again this month. At their third meeting, held on the 21st at Mayor Mamdani's invitation, President Trump lavished praise on him, saying, "You will be a great mayor, and you have tremendous potential." Politico, a publication specializing in politics, said the pair's unexpected closeness had left Republican candidates in New York deeply perplexed.

Defending his 'housing policy' even before an adversary

Mayor Mamdani reportedly exchanges text messages with President Trump from time to time to discuss major city issues, including the redevelopment of 'Sunnyside Yards.'

During the broadcast, host 'Jimmy Kimmel' jokingly asked Mamdani to take a selfie with him and send it to the president. But Mamdani firmly declined, saying, "Jimmy, I love you, but I love 'housing policy' more," prompting cheers from the audience.

Kimmel, meanwhile, is regarded as one of President Trump's leading 'political adversaries.' Last year, he was nearly forced to end his program over remarks related to Charlie Kirk, as well as a series of provocative jokes targeting first lady 'Melania Trump' this year.