Zohran Mamdani on his relationship with Trump and his vow to tax the rich: Full interview - NBC News

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) joins Meet the Press for an exclusive interview reflecting on his first 100 days in office, his campaign promises, and his relationships with New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) and President Trump.

The following summary is AI-generated.

- Universal Childcare Progress: Mayor Mamdani announced a $1.2B agreement with Gov. Hochul to provide free childcare for all 2-year-olds in NYC by the end of his first term, expanding from 3-year-olds — saving families about $20K/year.

- Budget Challenges & Solutions: Inherited a $12B deficit, reduced to $5.4B; pursuing a “pie d’eter” tax on vacant luxury properties owned by non-residents to raise $500M annually — aiming to avoid regressive property tax hikes.

- Transportation & Affordability: Already speeding up buses on 45 corridors (20% faster for 1M+ riders); working with Albany to make buses free — starting with one route, expanding gradually.

- City-Run Grocery Stores: Launching 5 city-run stores (one per borough) offering cheaper staples (bread, eggs) — not “free,” but subsidized essentials — beginning in East Harlem at La Marqueta.

- Relations with Trump & Federal Policy: Maintains “honest, direct, productive” relationship with President Trump, citing shared love for NYC; raised concerns about ICE raids and secured release of a detained Columbia student after direct appeal.

- Democratic Socialism in Practice: Defines it as extending democracy beyond voting — delivering tangible results like pothole repairs, sewer upgrades, and universal services — reaffirms belief in it despite budget constraints.