The Brian Lehrer Show Why Was President Trump So Friendly to Mayor-Elect Mamdani?
Nov 24, 2025
Listeners dive into the surprising friendship between Trump and Mayor-Elect Mamdani. Theories emerge about shared voter bases and Trump's strategy to appear supportive of a winning candidate. Some suggest Mamdani's poise might have impressed the former president. Others argue Trump is savvy enough to flatter potential allies to counteract negativity. Discussion also touches on Mamdani's ideology and its implications. The episode leaves viewers pondering the future dynamics between the two.
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Trump’s In-Person Strategy
- Brian Lehrer and callers note Trump may perform better in-person and often reacts positively to winners and personable rivals.
- This suggests Trump's demeanor can be strategic, aimed at appearing gracious or aligning with perceived victors.
Caller: Mamdani Outmatched Trump
- Marianne called saying Mamdani is "super smart and super savvy" and Trump met his match.
- She argued Trump responded with extra niceness because he feared being outmaneuvered verbally.
Trump Sides With Winners
- A Bronx caller suggested Trump sides with winners to appear on the right side of history.
- That dynamic could explain why he publicly courted the newly elected mayor.