New York City continues to be a center for far-left political growth, highlighted this week by Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s endorsement of Palestinian activist Aber Kawas. Speaking at a Democratic Socialists of America meeting, Mamdani backed Kawas despite her controversial past comments linking the 9/11 attacks to “capitalism,” “racism,” “white supremacy,” and “Islamophobia.” Kawas, who moved to the district only a year ago and holds a master’s degree in “Islamic Liberation Theology,” has previously argued that U.S. and European policies created global conditions that contributed to the attacks. Her record also includes online posts supporting Ahmed Ferhani, convicted in 2011 for plotting to bomb a Manhattan synagogue.
The endorsement came just days before Mamdani met with former President Donald Trump at the White House. The encounter was surprisingly cordial, despite years of public hostility. Trump — who once labeled Mamdani a “Communist lunatic” — praised him, saying he believes the mayor-elect may “surprise some conservative people.” Mamdani likewise emphasized shared goals over ideological divisions, noting that both men focused on affordability and public safety during their discussion. Their meeting offered political benefits for both: Mamdani gained national visibility, while Trump used the moment to highlight efforts to address cost-of-living concerns.
Still, the political implications remain uncertain. Both leaders built their followings through sharp criticism of one another, and it is unclear how their supporters will interpret this sudden shift in tone. Trump expressed confidence in Mamdani’s leadership, saying they would work together to create “a strong and very safe New York,” while Mamdani highlighted their “shared purpose” in serving the city’s residents.