Trump Warns of Financial Consequences for New York
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that federal funding for New York City could be restricted if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the upcoming mayoral election.
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump expressed full support for former governor Andrew Cuomo, calling him the city’s only viable choice for leadership. Whether you like Andrew Cuomo or not, New York has no other option right now, Trump wrote. Cuomo is the only one who can handle this city, while Mamdani is completely unfit for the job.
Trump further claimed that voting for the Republican candidate would essentially pave the way for Zohran Mamdani, suggesting that a split conservative vote could hand victory to the progressive Democrat.
Only Legally Required Funds
Trump’s remarks took a sharper tone when he accused Mamdani of harboring communist ideals. He warned that if Mamdani were elected, the federal government would provide only the funds legally required-and nothing more. If a communist like Zohran Mamdani becomes mayor, New York will get only what it is legally entitled to—no extras, Trump declared.
According to a federal government report, New York City is projected to receive around $7.4 billion in federal funds in the 2026 fiscal year, representing roughly 6.4 percent of its total budget. These funds support key areas including infrastructure, housing, and public safety.
Analysts say even a modest reduction could strain city programs, especially amid growing fiscal pressure from post-pandemic recovery efforts and rising homelessness.
Mamdani’s Progressive Campaign Gains Momentum
Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Ugandan-born state assembly member, has built a strong base among young and progressive voters. Known for his outspoken socialist stance, Mamdani has focused his campaign on affordable housing, workers’ rights, and police reform.
However, his left-leaning platform has sparked unease among business leaders and centrist Democrats, who fear that his policies could deter investment and deepen the city’s fiscal challenges.
Mamdani Responds: Trump and Cuomo Are the Same
Responding to Trump’s comments, Mamdani criticized both the president and Cuomo, saying their alliance revealed shared political interests. The MAGA movement embracing Andrew Cuomo shows Trump sees him as an ally in ideology, Mamdani said. The truth is, Trump and Cuomo are no different. They share the same donors, mindset, and arrogance.
Political observers note that Trump’s public endorsement of Cuomo—a Democrat and former adversary—underscores the increasing polarization of New York politics, where ideological divisions now cut across traditional party lines.
As the New York mayoral race heats up, Trump’s threat to limit funding adds another layer of national tension to a contest already marked by deep ideological rifts and the city’s uncertain economic outlook.
