WASHINGTON — Former President Donald Trump criticized New York Mayor Mamdani’s recently implemented rent freeze on Friday and dismissed the policy as detrimental to property owners. Speaking in response to the rent control measure, which bars landlords from increasing rents on nearly one million stabilized apartments for two years, Trump argued that such restrictions would eventually cause economic harm.

“Communism … destroys everything, but it’s very easy,” Trump said, characterizing the mayor’s rent freeze as a form of communist policy. He also referred to Mamdani as a “commie” during remarks tied to the outcomes of recent House primary elections, where candidates with socialist platforms won three contests. Trump suggested that these victories, along with the rent freeze, reflected a growing socialist influence he opposed.

The rent freeze was enacted by Mayor Mamdani as part of efforts to address housing affordability amid rising costs in New York City. Proponents argue the measure is necessary to protect tenants from steep rent hikes in a tight housing market. Critics, including Trump, contend that prolonged rent control can reduce investment in rental properties and lead to deterioration in housing quality.

The contrasting views on rent regulation and political shifts underscore ongoing debates in New York over how best to balance tenant protections with the interests of property owners. While the new policy aims to stabilize housing costs, opponents warn of potential long-term economic repercussions.

The three socialist candidates’ primary wins have added to the spotlight on the city’s political landscape as progressive policies gain traction. Trump’s comments reflect his broader opposition to socialist-leaning initiatives that have gained support among some voters during recent elections.

The rent freeze will remain in effect for two years, during which landlords will not be permitted to raise rents on stabilized apartments. City officials maintain that the measure is a necessary step to ensure housing remains affordable for many residents amid ongoing inflation and economic uncertainty.