As former President Donald Trump gears up for his highly anticipated rally at Madison Square Garden, many New Yorkers are responding with skepticism and humor. While thousands are reportedly signing up for the event, local business owners and political figures express disbelief about Trump’s chances in the state, viewing his campaign efforts as more of a spectacle than a serious bid for support.
Trump’s Return to New York Politics
On a recent morning at the Wiltwyck Golf Club, congressional candidates made their pitches to a crowd more interested in the breakfast buffet than the political discourse. Amidst the gathering, Trump’s plans to host a rally in his former home state have stirred mixed reactions. At a rally in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Trump himself boasted, “We just rented Madison Square Garden,” drawing cheers from his supporters.
However, many in New York regard this announcement with a sense of irony. Chelsea, a local business owner who requested anonymity, bluntly stated, “No, there’s no chance” Trump can win New York, adding with a nervous laugh, “Because he’s mentally ill.” This sentiment resonates with others who feel Trump’s fascination with the state is a sign of his detachment from reality.
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A Mixed Bag of Opinions
Al Roberts, chairman of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce, echoed the general sentiment, saying, “No, he doesn’t have a chance.” When asked about Trump’s continued interest in New York, he remarked, “It’s his home. It’s where he came from.” Roberts emphasized Trump’s identity as an entertainer and a master marketer, suggesting that his ongoing presence in New York is part of maintaining his brand.
Despite this dismissive tone from local leaders, enthusiasm for Trump persists in rural areas of the state. High school junior Dayton Leone expressed his optimism, stating, “I think he can win.” This youthful enthusiasm reflects a broader divide in voter sentiment, particularly among younger Republicans outside of the city.
The Appeal Beyond the City
Some Republican congressional incumbents are banking on Trump’s appeal to help them in upcoming elections. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) noted, “I wouldn’t say the state is in play for Trump, but in the districts that will determine control of Congress, he’s doing very well.” He attributes this to voters’ frustrations with the current administration, particularly regarding issues like the economy and immigration.
“It’s the substance of the issues,” Lawler stated, explaining that even if people have mixed feelings about Trump personally, they are more concerned about pressing issues that impact their lives daily.
A Depressing Reality for Many
Back at the golf club, the mood among business leaders was one of resignation. Jennifer, a credit union executive who preferred not to share her last name, encapsulated the sentiment by saying, “Everything about him is a show… I try to ignore him because he’s gotten so depressing. It’s so depressing.”
This prevailing mood highlights the contrast between Trump’s rallies and the everyday realities faced by many New Yorkers. As the state prepares for his Madison Square Garden event, it remains to be seen how his campaign will unfold in a place where many view him as a relic of the past rather than a viable contender for the future.
