Trump embraced a socialist hes told voters to fear. Republicans arent thrilled
Six weeks before the midterms, President Donald Trump is complicating one of Republicans' central campaign arguments against Democrats — warmly praising New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after repeatedly warning voters about the rise of socialism and communism on the left."I want him to be a great mayor, and he’s certainly got potential, got great potential," Trump told reporters as he patted Mamdani on the back after the two leaders met Monday at New York City's Gracie Mansion.The meeting, where the two leaders discussed cost of living and housing issues, isn't sitting well with some Republicans fighting to keep control of the House and Senate in the midterms."All of it is self-inflicted, off-message, not helpful," a GOP strategist who asked to remain anonymous to speak freely told Fox News Digital."None of these candidates out in these states, where these races are tighter and more competitive than they should be, are helped by any of this."MAMDANI TELLS TRUMP BANNED NEWS OUTLETS ARE WELCOME AT NYC MEETINGPresident Donald Trump, left, and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani talk to reporters after meeting at Gracie Mansion, on Sept.
21, 2026.Another Republican consultant, who also asked for anonymity, argued, "This is a president who is in a fully self-indulgent period.
It doesn't seem like he really cares about winning.It's all off key."Less than two weeks ago, Trump told Republicans gathered in Dallas at the GOP's first-ever midterm convention that there is a "communist" takeover of the Democratic Party."In state after state, the Democrat establishment has been overthrown and replaced by crazed lunatics and radicals.
They call themselves Democrat socialists, but actually, they’re communists," the president said.THE GOP'S 'SOCIALIST' MIDTERM PLAYBOOKUnited States President Donald Trump speaks during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly at United Nations headquarters, Tuesday, Sept.22, 2026.
(AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)Fast-forward to Monda...