What did Mamdani say when asked about Kamala Harris and US Presidential race?

As speculation grows around the 2028 US presidential race, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is keeping his distance from the debate. Asked about Kamala Harris’ possible candidacy, he declined to engage, instead pointing to governance and on-ground results as his priority.

Appearing on NBC’s Meet the Press, Mamdani declined to weigh in on Harris’ potential candidacy for US presidential elections, instead shifting the focus firmly back to governance.

“I have to be honest, I haven’t thought about the candidacies for president this time,” he said when asked directly about 2028.

Pressed further by host Kristen Welker, Mamdani made it clear he had no interest in engaging in national speculation.

“New Yorkers are tired of politicians pontificating about other politicians,” he said. “What they want to see are results. And that’s why my focus has been more on potholes than on politics.”

Even when the question was reframed — whether Harris would be the strongest Democratic candidate — Mamdani smiled and sidestepped it again.

“And I am proud of that,” he said, when told he appeared to be the only Democrat avoiding the topic.

FOCUS ON 2026 AND PARTY DIRECTION

The 34-year-old mayor, just over 100 days into office, said his priorities lie closer to home. “In 2026, I want to be delivering for New Yorkers,” he said, adding that Democrats must focus on winning midterms and offering a clearer vision.

“We know very well what we oppose. What are we for?” he said. “That is the heart of the question for our party.”

Throughout the interview, Mamdani returned to a consistent message: results over rhetoric. “I think New Yorkers are tired of politicians pontificating about other politicians,” he said again, reinforcing his stance.

MAMDANI STRIKES PRACTICAL TONE ON TIES WITH TRUMP

While avoiding questions about fellow Democrats, Mamdani spoke at length about his working relationship with US President Donald Trump.

“It’s honest, it’s direct and it’s productive,” Mamdani said, describing his interactions with Trump despite sharp disagreements on issues such as immigration enforcement.

He said the two share a common focus when it comes to New York City. “Our love for New York City” and “how to deliver” are areas where they find common ground, he noted.

HARRIS SAYS SHE IS THINKING ABOUT 2028 PRESIDENTIAL RUN

Meanwhile, Former Vice President Kamala Harris had directly addressed speculation about her political future just days earlier. Speaking at the National Action Network convention, Harris told American civil rights activist Al Sharpton that she is actively considering a 2028 presidential bid. “Listen, I might. I might. I’m thinking about it. I’m thinking about it.”

She framed the decision around who could best serve the American people, noting her experience and knowledge of the demands of the presidency. “I’ll keep you posted,” she added, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the crowd.

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