FAQ NYC Episode 518: The United Nations — and Mamdani and Trump — Assemble
Sep 21, 2026
Mamdani and Trump prepare for a high-stakes meeting at Gracie Mansion, while questions swirl around Israel, policing, and City Hall’s ability to deliver on an ambitious agenda. The conversation also explores a slavery-era African burial ground threatened by development, UN and Climate Week congestion, and the Brooklyn Democratic Party’s escalating legal and political turmoil.
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Mamdani’s Popularity Gives Him Leverage With Trump
- Mamdani’s popularity gives him unusual leverage with Trump, who values celebrity and public approval.
- Christina Greer says that rapport could turn policy disagreements into negotiations on immigration, development, and federal support.
Cordial Relations Can Produce Limited Wins
- Mamdani’s cordial relationship with Trump can produce limited wins without changing their fundamental policy differences.
- Their February meeting helped secure a detained Columbia student’s release, showing the practical value of maintaining dialogue.
Hosting Netanyahu Does Not Mean Softening
- Mamdani’s hosting duties do not necessarily signal softened views on Israel or Netanyahu.
- Christina Greer argues that his campaign commitments remain intact even as he performs the mayor’s diplomatic role during UNGA.