Mamdani, President Trump have been texting at least twice a week — as unlikely bromance blossoms: sources
Hey, you up? Mayor Zohran Mamdani and President Trump have been exchanging “friendly” missives at least twice a week — as the unlikely bromance between the socialist and conservative commander-in-chief continues to blossom, The Post has learned. ‘JUST SAY YES’: TRUMP CUTS IN AS NYC MAYOR-ELECT MAMDANI DODGES ON CALLING HIM A ‘FASCIST’ AT OVAL OFFICE The former Astoria lawmaker and the Queens native have semi-regularly been chatting via text since their chummy White House meeting in November, discussing a wide range of topics, from the toppling of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and zoning red tape in Big Apple real estate, according to sources. Insiders with knowledge of the conversation described the tone of the texts as “friendly.” MAMDANI CALLS ICE DETENTION OF NYC EMPLOYEE ‘ASSAULT ON OUR DEMOCRACY’ “It wouldn’t make practical, political sense for them to scream at each other — in public or private,” one politico said, while also noting, “Of course, they can’t appear too cozy.” The source added: “Mamdani would be smart to kiss Trump’s ass … Especially when the federal government can withhold billions from the city.” The budding relationship and the regularity with which the two chat personally are a marked departure from previous interactions between presidents and New York City mayors in recent history. MAMDANI STRONGLY CONDEMNS TRUMP’S CAPTURE OF VENEZUELAN LEADER MADURO AS ‘ACT OF WAR’ Even Mamdani’s predecessor Mayor Eric Adams, who cozied up to Trump and rushed down to DC in the middle of the night to attend his inauguration last year, had to connect with the president through intermediaries. Andrew Kirtzman, CEO of the strategic communications firm KSX, said it was “remarkable that Trump feels so comfortable with [Mamdani].” “He hated (Bill) de Blasio, the last left-wing mayor, and probably felt estranged from the city because of it,” he said. “He seems to feel an emotional connection with Mamdani. The mayor must be totally amazed by what’s happening.” Asked how this might play with Mamdani’s base of Democratic Socialists of America members who despise the Republican White House, Kirtzman said he believed they’d likely give the lefty mayor a pass. “I think the left understands this is purely transactional from Mamdani’s perspective,” he said.
Delhi-NCR shivers at 3°C, Gurugram dips below zero for 2nd day, air quality remains ‘very poor’; IMD issues alert for Punjab, Haryana
The IMD indicated that yellow alerts will remain in place until January 17, signalling a prolonged spell of biting cold across the region. The impact was stark on the ground, with massive ground frost and ice formation reported across Gurugram’s outskirts for the second consecutive morning.
West Bengal Nipah virus scare: Two nurses ‘very critical’, all you need to know about causes and symptoms
Two nurses from a private hospital in Barasat, West Bengal, are in critical condition with suspected Nipah virus infection. Samples have been sent to AIIMS Kalyani for confirmation as authorities step up surveillance, contact tracing, and precautionary measures.
Germany allows visa-free transit for Indians, here is what it means
A transit visa is a short-term permit that allows travellers to pass through a country for a layover, en route to their final destination. To obtain this visa, travellers must provide proof of onward travel and demonstrate that they do not intend to stay in the country for an extended period.
Stray dogs case: SC to impose heavy penalties on states for every dog bite death, says, ‘will be fixing heavy compensation’
During the hearing, the Supreme Court asked, “For every dog bite, for every death, we will be likely fixing heavy compensation for states for not making requisite arrangements.”
Republic Day 2026: Delhi airspace to remain closed from January 21, over 600 flights to be affected, here’s all you need to know
The Delhi airspace will remain closed daily from January 21 to 26 for Republic Day rehearsals and celebrations, disrupting over 600 flights. The restrictions may cause delays, cancellations, and missed connections during an already challenging winter travel period.
Operation Sindoor: India was ready to launch ground offensive, reveals army chief, warns against 8 terror camps still active in Pakistan
While addressing the annual press conference in the capital, he said the Armed forces had complete freedom to “act or respond” during Op Sindoor.
Maharashtra: Zilla parishads, panchayat samitis elections to be held on Feb 5; check details
The election schedule was announced a day after the Supreme Court extended the January 31 timeline for completing the poll process for local body elections by two weeks.
In major crackdown on gun culture, mafia lifestyle, Haryana police take down 67 songs from social media
In a major crackdown on spreading violence-related content, the Haryana Police have taken down 67 songs from all digital platforms that promote gang lifestyle and extol weapons and violence. The Haryana Police’s cybercrime unit has been deployed in monitoring social media and taking direct action.
Who is DB Venkatesh Varma? Senior Indian diplomat nominated by UN to chair its body on disarmament, check details
Senior Indian envoy DB Venkatesh Varma has been nominated by the UN Secretary General to chair the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters for the 2026-27 period. The nomination is significant and historical as it marks the first time any Indian has held the position.