The Hidden World of Manhattan's Trump Loyalists
Secret societies often conjure images of shadowy elites operating behind closed doors. But in liberal Manhattan, a surprising group defies expectations. Deep within a city that consistently votes against Donald Trump, a discreet network has been quietly organizing in his name.
From Soviet Russia to Trump Tower
At the center of this movement stands Rebekah Koffler, an immigrant who arrived from Soviet Russia in 1989. She came to America chasing the dream of free speech. Today, she builds a clandestine MAGA circle in one of Trump's most hostile territories.
Koffler served as a senior intelligence analyst at the Defense Intelligence Agency from 2008 to 2017. She specialized in Russian military strategy and Vladimir Putin. Her work focused on safeguarding U.S. national security. She has voted for Donald Trump in 2016, 2020, and 2024.
"He prioritises U.S. security and the average American over personal interests," Koffler explains about her support.
Living in Manhattan while supporting Trump came at a personal cost. Open MAGA allegiance often meant social exile. This realization sparked her desire to find others like her.
The 45-ers: A Secret Society Emerges
They call themselves "The 45-ers." Their group chat bears the name "45–47." Their meeting spot? A bar called 45 inside Trump Tower. This peculiar Manhattan secret society operates largely under the radar.
Members come from remarkably diverse backgrounds:
- Muslims and Catholics
- Immigrants and Mayflower descendants
- Teachers, comedians, and business owners
- Former police officers and intelligence professionals
What unites them is unwavering loyalty to Trump and shared experiences of backlash. The group discusses politics openly. They defend Trump's most controversial decisions. Members support policies others denounce, from ICE raids to foreign policy standoffs.
For these individuals, the society serves multiple purposes. It provides political discussion, personal protection, and progressive connection within a hostile environment.
Voices from the Underground
Monica, a small business owner, offers a striking comparison. "Trump is our Obama," she says. She believes Trump represents conservatives the way Barack Obama once inspired liberals. Her reasoning focuses on his background. "He comes from business, not politics."
Bardh Vadahi emigrated from communist Albania in 2003. Now 57, he works as a superintendent in Midtown. Vadahi appreciates Trump's directness. "He says what he means and means what he says. There's nothing fake about him."
Jimmy S brings law enforcement experience to the group. The 52-year-old retired police officer turned media executive lives with his wife Nicole in Trump Tower. He cites practical reasons for his residence choice. "It's a fantastic building with excellent security and the best view in the city."
Neil Greenfield faces particular challenges as a Trump impersonator. The comedian has endured assaults, fourteen attacks, and relentless hate. Yet he refuses to stop. "I know the risk," Greenfield states. "And it's worth it to me."
Other members include Geoffrey K, a comedian who also teaches and drives a cab. Rose H works in theater as a former Rockette. Sandi J is a retired speech-language pathologist. All share experiences of harassment, trolling, and sometimes physical attacks for their pro-Trump views.
From Secrecy to Open Display
For years, many members stayed silent in public. Finding each other changed that dynamic. Today, the secrecy gradually fades as confidence grows.
Dwight Y, a 68-year-old retired police officer, now wears his allegiance openly. He sports a red baseball cap with an American flag patch. He proudly hangs a U.S. flag along Central Park while playing.
John D represents another immigrant story. He came from communist Albania and identifies as a secular Muslim. He wears his MAGA hat daily. When told to remove it, he simply swapped headwear. His new cap reads: "TRUMP 2028."
The group continues gathering at 45 bar in Trump Tower. Their hopes extend beyond current elections. They look toward 45, then 47, and now—48. What began as hidden support transforms into visible commitment within America's most unexpected Trump territory.
