Aides to President Donald Trump have spent recent days reviewing federal programs that benefit New York City to determine whether any could be suspended or canceled following Zohran Mamdani’s election as mayor. A White House official said the administration is waiting for Trump’s approval before taking any action.

The White House and Mamdani’s transition team have not yet been in contact. The official did not specify which programs could be affected if funding is cut.

Mamdani, elected as the 111th mayor of New York, campaigned on a progressive platform including rent freezes for over a million apartments, universal childcare, free city buses, and city-owned grocery stores, to be funded by taxes on corporations and high earners.

“I will be reaching out to the White House as we prepare to take office because this relationship is critical to the city’s success,” Mamdani said, adding that he will fight any measures that harm New Yorkers.

During the campaign, Trump repeatedly criticized Mamdani and encouraged voters to support other candidates, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Following the election, Trump stated he wanted the new mayor to succeed but advised him to remain “respectful of Washington.”

New York City received nearly $10 billion in federal funds in fiscal year 2025, supporting education, housing, social services, and other programs. Cuts could significantly impact the city’s budget, especially amid ongoing economic challenges from federal agency reductions and a prolonged government shutdown.

Political analysts note that while cutting funds could serve as leverage, it also carries risks, as seen when previous federal funding halts sparked backlash in neighboring states during elections.