Republican Spars with CNN Host Over Branding Mamdani a 'Communist' Instead of 'Socialist': 'I Can't Tell What the Difference Is!'

"I can't tell what the difference is! Donalds responded. Explain what the difference is. Well, he can describe the difference for you, that socialism is not the same basis of communism in this country. You know that well, you have an economic background, Coates said. The man wants to create government-run grocery stores, he wants free transportation both of which are impossible to do. Because how Donalds replied, before being cut off by Coates."

"You know that communism is a trigger word to try to undermine all of his policies, Coates chimed in. Donalds said that is absurd. I don't need to undermine his policies. His policies undermine himself, because they've never worked, Donalds said. Here's all I want him to do: tell me where they've ever worked. They've never worked. He knows that, I know that."

Rep. Byron Donalds labeled Zohran Mamdani a communist and argued Mamdani was pushing communist policies. CNN anchor Laura Coates countered that Mamdani is a democratic socialist and insisted socialism is not the same as communism in the United States. The exchange included debate over proposals such as government-run grocery stores, free public transportation, and freezing rent. Donalds dismissed those policies as unworkable and said they undermine themselves. The dispute intensified on the eve of Election Day in New York City, where Mamdani is projected to win. President Trump mocked Mamdani as "my little communist," while President Obama praised Mamdani's campaign.

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