City Journal Audio Mamdani vs. Trump: Who Holds the Cards in New York City?
Dec 4, 2025
Jim Copland, a seasoned policy analyst, and Tal Fortgang, a sharp cultural commentator, dive into the intriguing dynamic between Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and Donald Trump. They discuss the implications of Mamdani's approach to immigration and public safety, debating if he's truly the radical he appears. The conversation touches on the legal limits of mayoral power against federal authority and the potential for unrest in New York City. With insights on mass protests and changing civic norms, the stakes for residents are laid bare.
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Trump Practices Pragmatic Cordiality
- Donald Trump often treats political rivals cordially when it suits his interests and will be pleasant even after criticizing them.
- Jim Copland says Trump views politics as permanent interests rather than permanent enemies.
Mamdani's Public Persona May Mask Flexibility
- Zohran Mamdani's activist persona may be moderated once in office, creating uncertainty about his true governing approach.
- Tal Fortgang worries Mamdani might be more unknown and strategically flexible than his DSA backers expect.
Federal Supremacy Constrains Mayoral Power
- Federal supremacy limits what a mayor can legally block, so Mamdani cannot ban federal agents like ICE from operating in NYC.
- Jim Copland emphasizes constitutional and historical limits on local authority versus federal power.