New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met with Governor Kathy Hochul at her Manhattan office for approximately 90 minutes to discuss key issues affecting the city. Their conversation included topics such as affordability, public safety, and Mamdani's proposal for universal child care, which aims to provide free child care for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Mamdani highlighted that the lack of universal child care has resulted in an economic loss exceeding $20 billion during Mayor Eric Adams' administration, as it has led to mothers exiting the workforce and families relocating from New York City. To fund this initiative and other proposals, such as free public transportation, Mamdani suggested increasing taxes on corporations and individuals earning over $1 million, pending approval from the state Legislature and Governor Hochul.

Both officials expressed a mutual interest in making substantial investments to advance universal child care in New York. They noted that senior staff members would convene in the coming weeks to strategize for the fiscal year 2027 and beyond. The meeting also addressed concerns regarding potential increases in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in New York City and the possibility of deploying the National Guard. Both Mamdani and Hochul agreed that a federal surge would not enhance public safety. Hochul's team provided updates on preparedness efforts in anticipation of potential federal actions targeting New York, and Mamdani's staff will participate in these efforts.

In a separate development, Mamdani publicly supported Starbucks workers who initiated an open-ended strike due to unresolved contract negotiations. He urged consumers to refrain from patronizing Starbucks while the strike is ongoing, stating on social media, "Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract. While workers are on strike, I won't be buying any Starbucks, and I'm asking you to join us." This strike coincided with Red Cup Day, a promotional event that typically boosts sales for the company, and follows Starbucks' announcement of a restructuring plan that resulted in the closure of over 600 stores nationwide. Mamdani's support for the striking baristas aligns with his consistent advocacy for labor movements, emphasizing the collective power of consumers in his statement, "Together, we can send a powerful message. No contract, no coffee."