President Donald Trump's administration has been characterized by its stance on immigration, and the topic continues to be a flashpoint in political discourse. In a recent episode of "The Joe Rogan Experience," host Joe Rogan voiced strong opinions regarding New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's budget proposal, particularly the funding allocated for migrants. During the podcast, Rogan referred to Mayor Mamdani as a "psychopath," criticizing the amount of money designated for migrant support.
The discussion unfolded on February 19, 2026, when Rogan reacted to Mamdani's plan, focusing on the implications for illegal immigrants. Rogan stated, "The amount for migrants is crazy. There should be zero dollars for illegal immigrants." His guest, author Michael Malice, countered that while eliminating funding entirely might not be feasible, migrants present in the city would still require basic necessities.
Rogan proposed that migrants should seek employment as an alternative to public assistance, suggesting "Get them jobs in Guatemala," when Malice inquired about the practicality of employing migrants in the U.S. The conversation acknowledged the complexity of the situation, with Malice expressing concerns about migrants competing with American workers for jobs.
The exchange touched on various aspects of the immigration debate, including the costs associated with possible incarceration and the challenges of potentially removing migrants from the country. Malice, known for his provocative commentary, appeared in face paint to mark his tenth appearance on Rogan's podcast, humorously remarking on social media that "tenth time’s the charm."
Mayor Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, has been a proponent of increased social spending and progressive policies since assuming office. Breitbart News reports that New York City has expended billions in recent years to manage the influx of migrants, including shelters, food programs, and other services, stretching the city's financial resources.
The mayor's supporters argue that the city has a legal and humanitarian duty to care for those arriving, while opponents believe that continued funding only incentivizes further migration and imposes unjust burdens on taxpayers. Rogan’s comments have since gained traction online, eliciting a spectrum of reactions from both supporters and critics. The podcast host has previously expressed his dissatisfaction with the federal government's border security efforts.
As the debate continues, the financial and social impacts of the city's migrant policies remain at the forefront of public discussion. Rogan's remarks underscore the ongoing national conversation about the responsibilities and challenges associated with immigration policy and its local implementation.
