The U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution condemning the “horrors of socialism” on Friday morning by a vote of 285-98. The vote came just hours before President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Zohran Mamdani, the incoming Democratic socialist mayor of New York City.
Among those voting, 86 Democrats joined Republicans in approving the measure, while two members voted present. No Republicans opposed the resolution.
House Republican leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson, criticized Mamdani’s election, portraying him as a radical figure in the Democratic Party. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, GOP officials have indicated that Mamdani may become a focal point in their campaign messaging.
Some Democrats criticized the resolution, arguing it “selectively lists certain despotic leaders and the harms of totalitarian regimes self-labeled socialist,” though the resolution did not explicitly call for a “no” vote on any related measures. Mamdani’s unexpected rise has reportedly unsettled moderates, particularly in New York.
Despite the political tension, Mamdani emphasized his intent to collaborate with the Trump administration on initiatives benefiting New Yorkers. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I have many disagreements with the President, and I believe that we should be relentless and pursue all avenues and all meetings that can make our city affordable for every single New Yorker.”
The meeting between Trump and Mamdani is scheduled for Friday at 3 p.m. ET at the White House, marking their first official interaction since Mamdani’s victory in the November 4 New York City mayoral election.
Mamdani explained that he requested the meeting to discuss affordability and other key issues affecting the city’s more than 8.5 million residents.
He added, “I intend to make it clear to President Trump that I will work with him on any agenda that benefits New Yorkers. If an agenda hurts New Yorkers, I will also be the first to say so.”
Mamdani also noted that it is customary for incoming New York City mayors to meet with the White House, citing mutual reliance between the city and federal government. He highlighted the urgency of addressing both the national affordability crisis and local public safety concerns under current policy conditions.
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump confirmed the meeting, referring to Mamdani as the “communist Mayor of New York City” and stating that the meeting would take place on Friday, November 21. Ahead of the election, Trump had been critical of Mamdani, warning that his victory could lead to a “complete and total economic and social disaster” for New York City.
During his victory speech, Mamdani addressed Trump’s policies, emphasizing the city’s immigrant communities and signaling his intent to lead inclusively.
He said, “After all, if anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that gave rise to him.”
Trump, responding to Mamdani’s speech, described it as “very angry” and suggested the mayor-elect would face challenges in succeeding without demonstrating respect for federal leadership.