NEW YORK, Nov 21 (V7N) — New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and President Donald Trump are set to meet at the White House on Nov. 21, marking their first formal discussion. The meeting aims to address key city priorities, including cost-of-living concerns and federal support for infrastructure and urban programs.

Mamdani, 34, a state assemblyman and democratic socialist, will assume office as mayor on January 1. He said he intends to use the meeting to promote economic policies that benefit New Yorkers. “I will meet with anyone who can help advance an affordability agenda for our city,” Mamdani told reporters on Nov. 20.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the meeting but did not provide specific discussion points, stating the President is open to dialogue with leaders from across the country.

Political analysts note that the meeting provides an opportunity for Mamdani to establish a working relationship with the federal government and address issues affecting New York City, such as funding for large infrastructure projects including the Gateway Tunnel and the Second Avenue Subway.

Experts also highlight the importance of dialogue between city and federal leaders in maintaining a cooperative approach to urban governance. “The mayor-elect can set the tone for collaboration while advocating for the city’s priorities,” said Ester Fuchs, a Columbia University professor and former adviser to Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

New York City receives less than 7% of its nearly $120 billion budget from the federal government, and the city’s gross domestic product was approximately $1.286 trillion in 2023, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. While the city is largely fiscally independent, discussions with federal officials remain vital for ongoing infrastructure and community development projects.

The meeting is expected to focus on constructive collaboration, ensuring that both city and federal interests are represented, and advancing initiatives that support New Yorkers’ economic well-being.

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