During a recent press interaction, President Trump interjected after a reporter questioned Mamdani about previously labeling him a “despot” and accusing him of betraying the country. Mamdani responded that both he and President Trump were well aware of their respective stances. Trump then quipped that he’s been called worse than a despot, dismissing the remark as not particularly offensive.
The exchange, captured in a viral Twitter video, highlights the ongoing contentious political climate. President Trump’s response reflects a pattern of downplaying criticism, a strategy frequently employed throughout his career. This contrasts with reports indicating that while in office, Trump tracked media coverage closely and was often sensitive to negative portrayals, despite public appearances to the contrary.