Trump Slams NYC Mayor Mamdani Over Proposed Tax on Wealthy

The former president criticized the mayor's plan to tax high-end secondary homes in the city.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:41pm

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Former President Donald Trump lashed out at New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on social media over a proposed tax targeting the city's ultra-wealthy residents who own secondary properties valued over $5 million. Trump called the measure 'DESTROYING New York!' and said it will only make things 'WORSE' as people flee the city.

Why it matters

The proposed 'pied-à-terre tax' is a key part of Mamdani's agenda to address New York's budget shortfall and income inequality. However, Trump and other critics argue it will drive out the wealthy and further damage the city's economy.

The details

The tax would directly affect billionaires like Citadel CEO Ken Griffin, Amazon's Jeff Bezos, and Trump himself who own high-end secondary homes in the city but live elsewhere. The mayor's office says the tax is expected to generate $500 million in annual revenue to help close the city's budget gap.

  • On April 18, 2026, Trump criticized the tax proposal on Truth Social.
  • On April 19, 2026, Mayor Mamdani responded to Trump's remarks during a press conference.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who owns luxury properties in New York City and has been critical of the proposed tax.

Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City who has proposed a new tax targeting wealthy owners of secondary homes in the city.

Kathy Hochul

The governor of New York state who has also backed the proposed pied-à-terre tax.

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What they’re saying

“Sadly, Mayor Mamdani is DESTROYING New York! It has no chance! The United States of America should not contribute to its failure.”

— Donald Trump, Former President

“It's not a surprise given the fact that the president and I have many deep policy differences, and I am not shy about airing them both publicly and privately.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

What’s next

The New York City Council will vote on the proposed pied-à-terre tax in the coming weeks. If approved, the tax would go into effect starting in 2027.

The takeaway

The clash between Trump and Mamdani over the proposed tax on wealthy property owners highlights the ongoing debate in New York City over how to address income inequality and generate revenue, with the mayor pushing for more progressive policies and the former president arguing they will drive out the city's elite.