(MENAFN) US President Donald Trump issued a warning on Monday that he could drastically reduce federal aid to New York City if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani, whom he described as a “Communist,” is victorious in the upcoming mayoral election.

Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, saying, "If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the Election for Mayor of New York City, it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home, because of the fact that, as a Communist, this once great City has zero chance of success, or even survival! It can only get worse with a Communist at the helm."

Mamdani, who serves as a New York State Assemblyman for Queens’ 36th District, has been outspoken about initiatives such as housing reform, public transit expansion, and social welfare programs.

While he identifies as a democratic socialist, he frequently rejects the “Communist” label often applied by conservative opponents.

The remarks from Trump come as the New York City mayoral contest enters its decisive phase.

Early voting has concluded, and over five million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots on Tuesday to choose the city’s next mayor in a competitive three-way race featuring Mamdani, former New York governor and independent candidate Andrew Cuomo, and Republican contender Curtis Sliwa.

In his statement, Trump seemed to give his implicit backing to Cuomo, cautioning his followers that supporting Sliwa would effectively benefit Mamdani.

"We must also remember this — A vote for Curtis Sliwa (who looks much better without the beret!) is a vote for Mamdani. Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice. You must vote for him, and hope he does a fantastic job. He is capable of it, Mamdani is not!" he wrote.

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