‘New York’s cutest’: Obama and Mayor Zohran Mamdani team up for heartwarming child care visit

In a light-hearted visit to the Learning Through Play Pre-K Center in the Bronx on Saturday, former President Barack Obama and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani spent time reading to preschoolers and leading a singalong, marking the first such collaboration for the pair.

This event marked the first in-person meeting between the two leaders. The pair read the book “Alone and Together” and led a spirited rendition of “The Wheels on the Bus”. 

Social media clips captured the duo singing and playing with the kids, showcasing a rare, casual side of the high-profile politicians. 

Beyond the fun, the visit included meetings with families and a private discussion regarding Mayor Mamdani's administration goals.

Obama also posted about the encounter, describing it as “great spending time with New York City’s cutest,” and joking about singing “Wheels on the Bus” during the visit.

Conversations touched on his efforts to expand free childcare and improve affordability for the working class. The meeting occurred as Mamdani-a democratic socialist-reached his 100th day in office. 

Since being sworn in as the 112th Mayor of New York City in January 2026, he has sought to build relationships across the political spectrum, including maintaining a professional dialogue with President Donald Trump.