Zohran Mamdani Challenges Trump on Immigration in Brooklyn Speech

Mamdani's Bold Stance Against Trump

On November 5 in New York, Zohran Mamdani issued a direct challenge to President Donald Trump regarding immigration policies, asserting that any attempt to target immigrants would have to confront the collective strength of the community.

Speaking to an enthusiastic audience in Brooklyn, he emphasized that a city led by immigrants would always remain open and welcoming.

Addressing Trump, whom he presumed was listening, Mamdani declared, “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I’ve got four words for you: Turn the volume up.”

In response, Trump posted a foreboding message on Truth Social, stating, “…AND SO IT BEGINS”!

Labeling Mamdani a 'Communist', Trump warned that New York City would face severe economic and social challenges if Mamdani were to win.

He also threatened to withdraw federal funding from the city.

Mamdani framed his potential victory as a transformative moment for the nation, stating, “No longer will we have to open a history book for proof that Democrats can dare to be great.”

He reiterated his commitment to addressing the city's affordability crisis through initiatives like free public transportation, universal childcare, rent freezes for certain homes, and improved public housing.

Mamdani assured that every resident of New York would feel the positive changes he aimed to implement.

Reflecting on the hard work ahead, he quoted the late Governor Mario Cuomo, saying, “While you campaign in poetry, you govern in prose.”

He added, “If that must be true, let the prose we write still rhyme and let us build a shining city for all.”

In a moment of optimism, he proclaimed, “In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light.”

His parents, filmmaker Mira Nair and academic Mahmood Mamdani, were present on stage during his speech.

Addressing criticisms he has faced, the 34-year-old stated, “I am young, despite my best efforts to grow older. I am Muslim. I am a Democratic Socialist. And most damning of all, I refuse to apologise for any of this.”

Mamdani has been accused of anti-Semitism due to his leadership in anti-Israel protests, but he expressed a commitment to building a City Hall that stands with Jewish New Yorkers and combats anti-Semitism.

He also emphasized that it would be a place where over a million Muslims feel they belong, not just in the city but in positions of power.

He declared, “No more will New York be a city where you can traffic in Islamophobia and win an election.”

In his concession speech, former Governor Cuomo congratulated Mamdani and expressed hope for his success for the benefit of the city, which was met with disapproval from Mamdani's supporters.

Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, whom Mamdani defeated, also wished him well but warned that if Mamdani pursued socialist policies or weakened police presence, he would become “the worst enemy.”