Newsom Warns NYC Mayor Mamdani About Relationship With Trump

California governor jokes he 'knows how this love story ends' between Mamdani and former president

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom offered a playful warning to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani about his growing rapport with former President Donald Trump, joking during a public event that he believes he already knows how the relationship will end. Newsom's comments highlighted his evolving stance on dealing with Trump, as the California governor has taken a more confrontational tone toward the Trump administration in recent years.

Why it matters

Newsom's remarks underscore the political dynamics between Democratic leaders in California and New York, as well as the ongoing tensions between state and federal governments under the Trump administration. The relationship between Mamdani and Trump also raises questions about the mayor's political strategy and alignment with the former president.

The details

During an event promoting his new memoir, Newsom was interviewed on stage by political commentator Jack Cocchiarella, who joked that Trump 'has got a crush' on both Newsom and Mamdani. Newsom laughed at the remark before offering a playful but pointed response, saying 'I've got to talk to Zohran. I know how this love story ends, Zohran.' The comment highlighted Newsom's evolving stance on dealing with Trump, as the California governor has taken a more confrontational tone toward the Trump administration in recent years after initially saying he planned to approach the president with 'an open hand, not a closed fist.'

  • Newsom made the comments on March 5, 2026 during a book tour event in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
  • Newsom and Mamdani first spoke shortly after Mamdani won the New York mayoral election last fall.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California who is considered a likely contender for the 2028 U.S. presidential election.

Zohran Mamdani

The democratic socialist mayor of New York City who has developed a notably cordial relationship with former President Donald Trump.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who won a second term and has had friendly interactions with Mamdani.

Jack Cocchiarella

A Gen Z political commentator who interviewed Newsom on stage.

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What they’re saying

“I've got to talk to Zohran. I know how this love story ends, Zohran.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

“I think this mayor is going to be doing some things that are really great.”

— Donald Trump

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.