The Brian Lehrer Show Friday Morning Politics: Trump and Mamdani Meet
Nov 21, 2025
Jonathan Lemire, a journalist and co-host of Morning Joe on MSNBC, dives into the political landscape as he discusses Mayor-elect Mamdani's meeting with Trump. They explore the meeting's potential for charm or confrontation and how both men might leverage affordability as a political tool. Lemire also examines Trump's tendency for vengeance, the implications of federal moves against New York, and hints at growing divisions within the GOP. Their conversation underscores pressing issues like crime and tax policy, coupled with concerns about press freedom under Trump's administration.
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Meeting Could Be A Performance
- Trump may seek a public, camera-friendly Oval Office moment to sway his base.
- Jonathan Lemire warns the meeting's tenor could swing between charm and attack depending on Trump's aims.
Defer Publicly, Negotiate Privately
- Foreign leaders learned to be deferential on camera and negotiate behind closed doors with Trump.
- Lemire expects Mamdani to seek common ground on affordability while pushing back where needed.
Flatter Tactically, Push Back Clearly
- Mamdani should aim for limited flattery but maintain clear distinctions to satisfy his base.
- Lemire advises focusing on payoffs like affordability while resisting appearing to endorse Trump.