New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he pressed President Donald Trump on the status of Haitian immigrants in the US during a meeting at Gracie Mansion.
“We’re talking about something that can either deliver or deny stability in their lives. The Trump administration has ended Temporary Protected Status for Haitians living in the US, leaving them vulnerable to deportation. Trump acknowledged that the mayor had raised the issue but made no commitment. Monday’s meeting at the mayor’s official residence was highly anticipated for the political pairing who in the past have indicated a willingness to work together even as they trade barbs in public. The mayor has also strengthened protections for migrants as the Trump administration ramps up its deportation campaign.
The city’s proposal calls for about 12,000 homes and 30,000 jobs. Mamdani has previously said the project would require more than $21 billion in federal grants. Earlier this month, the Department of Homeland Security said more than 2,100 immigrants were arrested in New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley and upstate counties in a monthlong operation.
Mamdani said the leaders held a “productive” conversation Monday on the immigration issue during their third face-to-face meeting. “We are talking about one of the most critical communities in our city,” he said, taking questions from the press after a largely frictionless joint appearance with Trump. “I feel strongly about taking care of people,” he said. Ahead of the meeting, Mamdani’s office said the discussion would focus on issues affecting the city and its residents. Mamdani said the two agreed to begin technical discussions between City Hall and the White House on financing and federal authorization for a platform over the rail yard.
