House Minority Leader Jeffries Plans Meeting with NYC Mayoral Nominee Mamdani on Affordability

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced he will meet with Democratic New York City mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani next week to discuss Mamdani's vision for the city, focusing on affordability and the high cost of living. Although Jeffries congratulated Mamdani on his primary victory and praised his campaign's emphasis on economic issues, he has withheld formal endorsement pending their conversation. Jeffries also stressed the importance of Mamdani addressing the rise in antisemitism in New York City if elected, highlighting their political differences, particularly regarding Israel and Mamdani's controversial statements. Despite these differences, Jeffries defended Mamdani against President Donald Trump's criticism, who labeled Mamdani a "communist lunatic." Jeffries countered Trump's remarks, emphasizing that Mamdani is neither communist nor a lunatic and criticized Trump for focusing on partisan attacks rather than addressing national issues. The New York City mayoral election is scheduled for November 4, 2025.