Donald Trump has weighed in on the New York City mayoral race in dramatic fashion, warning that he could block federal funds if left-wing candidate Zohran Mamdani wins Tuesday’s election.
Speaking to CBS’ 60 Minutes, the former president emphasized his strong opposition to Mamdani, labeling him a “communist” and suggesting that supporting him financially would be a waste of taxpayer money.
Trump, who grew up in New York, added a personal jab, saying, “Well, I think I’m a much better-looking person than him, right?”
The president compared Mamdani to charismatic predecessors who broke the old political rules, while expressing a preference for former Governor Andrew Cuomo to win instead, calling him the “bad Democrat” choice over Mamdani.
Comparing Mamdani to de Blasio and Cuomo
Trump didn’t hold back in drawing comparisons. He likened Mamdani to former Mayor Bill de Blasio, whom he called “the worst mayor in history.”
When asked about Cuomo’s claims that Trump would become the “real mayor” of the city if Mamdani wins, the former president dismissed the idea as “so crazy.”
Polling data continues to show Mamdani holding a substantial lead over Cuomo, with a recent Daily Mail survey putting him 15 points ahead.
Trump Reflects on First Nine Months in Office
During the interview with host Norah O’Donnell, Trump reflected on his first nine months back in office, discussing several issues from immigration to the government shutdown.
He praised Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for their work, arguing that agents have been restrained by “liberal judges” and insisting that stronger enforcement is necessary against illegal immigrants, whom he described as often having criminal backgrounds or mental health issues.
The president clarified that some individuals might be reassessed after deportation, emphasizing that his policy begins with removal but allows for legal return.
Government Shutdown and Democratic Criticism
Trump criticized the ongoing government shutdown, which was approaching its 33rd day, placing the blame squarely on Democrats.
He accused them of refusing to negotiate and described their actions as “Trump derangement syndrome,” claiming they had “lost their way” and become “crazed lunatics.”
He reiterated his position that he cannot approve massive spending for welfare programs benefiting illegal immigrants, prisoners, or drug offenders but promised to collaborate on improving healthcare, particularly Obamacare, if the Democrats reopened the government.
Frustration with Senate Leadership
Trump also expressed frustration with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, describing him as a “basket case” and likening him to a “kamikaze pilot” with nothing to lose.
Despite skepticism about a deal, he remained optimistic that a resolution would be reached.
He voiced disappointment with Senate Majority Leader John Thune for not supporting his desire to “nuke” the filibuster, calling it “too bad” that Thune wasn’t interested in eliminating the procedural rule.
Rebuilding Relations with CBS and Paramount
The interview marked Trump’s first 60 Minutes appearance since settling a lawsuit with CBS News over its coverage of Kamala Harris.
The lawsuit, which resulted in a $16 million settlement, followed Trump’s claims that the network edited Harris’ interview unfairly.
Trump’s relationship with the network has historically been tense.
He walked out of a 2020 60 Minutes interview with Lesley Stahl, complaining of bias, and avoided the show during his 2024 campaign.
Since Paramount CEO David Ellison, son of Trump supporter Larry Ellison, took over, relations have reportedly warmed, with changes in CBS News leadership and booking practices signaling a closer alignment with the former president.
Trump’s Takeaways from CBS’ Coverage
Trump highlighted the changes at CBS under Paramount, including the hiring of Kenneth Weinstein and Bari Weiss, and mentioned that the network recently booked his son-in-law Jared Kushner for an interview about the Gaza peace deal.
He concluded by praising Ellison and his son for their support and friendship, indicating that he expects a more favorable coverage moving forward.