Maidan’s Power Play: A Quick Deal With Trump

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani met President Donald Trump in the Oval Office after a surprise meeting. The talk was brief but packed with moves that could change city plans. Mamdani asked for a huge federal grant – about $21 billion – to build 12, 000 new homes. The proposal includes a big deck over a rail yard in Queens that would hold the housing units. During the visit, Mamdani also pushed for a personal favor. He wanted Trump to release a student from federal detention and consider dropping cases against four other students, including a Palestinian activist. The mayor used the chance to talk about real estate, a topic Trump loves because he has built many properties. Mamdani tried to flatter the president. He showed two newspaper front pages: one old headline about New York’s debt in 1975, and a fake cover that claimed Trump delivered more than 12, 000 homes since 1973. The mayor’s post on social media showed him standing beside the president, who smiled widely.The meeting looked like a “Trojan Horse” win for Mamdani. He gained political goodwill and a potential funding stream, while Trump enjoyed talking about property. However, the mayor’s new friendship with Trump raises questions among his supporters. He had campaigned on opposing “fascism” and promised to stand against Trump’s policies. Now he is working closely with the former president, which some see as a betrayal. Mamdani’s actions show how politicians can use soft power. He avoided public clashes and kept a friendly tone with Trump. This may help him get the money he needs for affordable housing. Yet, it also shows that progressives in New York may watch him closely to see if he follows through on his promises. The outcome of the grant and other favors is still uncertain. Trump’s willingness to support New York projects can change quickly. Mamdani must decide if the benefits outweigh the criticism from his base.