New York with Mamdani to Stand Tall Against Trump: Author
The crushing defeat of Republicans in the US signals the rise of anger against Trump and his policy of vengeance, authored by billionaires. (Image Mamdani on X)
“If anything, they’re going to hold down the fort and really lead by example for the rest of the country on what it looks like when we fight for our rights.”
By TRH Foreign Affairs Desk
New Delhi, November 8, 2025 — In an interview with Al Arabiya English, author and activist Amani Al-Khatahtbeh criticized US President Donald Trump’s threat to withhold additional federal funds from New York if Zohran Mamdani were to win the mayoral election.
“Donald Trump has been holding federal funding hostage from states to politicize the reason why he’s providing funding that they are entitled to,” Al-Khatahtbeh said. “So it comes as no surprise to anybody.”
Asked whether Trump’s move amounted to an abuse of power, she argued that it only bolstered Mamdani’s appeal as a candidate “standing up to power.”
Al-Khatahtbeh, who attended Mamdani’s victory celebration, described the charged atmosphere when results were announced. “During his victory speech, when he said to Trump, ‘Turn the volume up louder,’ the entire room went into a roar,” she recalled. “You know this is the precipice of a MAGA showdown—and the people are ready for it.”
She added that New Yorkers are unlikely to be intimidated by Trump’s threats: “If anything, they’re going to hold down the fort and really lead by example for the rest of the country on what it looks like when we fight for our rights.”
Mamdani, an Indian origin American, polled over 50 percent votes to win the election for the post of Mayor in the New York City. He faced intimidation from Trump. The US President also amplified campaign against Mamdani for his identity.
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