Who’s Really Making America Great Again—Trump or AI? 🇺🇸

I landed in New York with expectations shaped by movies, TV shows, and social media. Chaos, honking taxis, flashing billboards, and a never-ending crowd of people. But my first morning in Manhattan? Surprisingly peaceful.

At 7 AM, the streets were calm, the air crisp, and the energy… different. Fewer cars than expected, and to my surprise, New Yorkers rely heavily on the subway. It wasn’t the tech-driven metropolis I had imagined—not yet.

Then, Times Square. The first time I visited during the day, I barely realized I was even there. The iconic place I had seen a thousand times on screens? Quiet, almost empty. No flashing lights, no overwhelming energy. It felt smaller than I had imagined. But when I returned in the evening? That was the Times Square I expected. Loud, bright, alive—but oddly narrow. On screen, it looks like a grand, open space. In reality, it’s an intersection of intensity compressed into a narrow street.

Where’s AI in New York? (Hint: It’s There, Just Not Visible)

New York and AI? Didn’t see much of it. No robots, no obvious automation, no flashy AI-driven experiences. The only thing remotely related to AI was one banner on 5th Avenue—and I can’t even remember what it was about.

But here’s the thing about AI: It’s never meant to be visible. It runs in the background, making things faster, smoother, and more efficient. Maybe the ads in Times Square were AI-generated, but with all those flashing lights and moving screens, who could even tell? After a while, it was just noise—visually overwhelming and even uncomfortable.

And that got me thinking: AI’s role in a city like New York isn’t about standing out—it’s about simplifying.

Two AI Ideas That Could Actually Work in NYC

AI-Powered Subway Recommendations
Imagine this: You’re already at Point X—why not take Subway Line Z and, within two stops, arrive at Point W? An AI-driven city assistant could track where you’ve been and suggest your next destination based on trends, interests, and even local promotions. More foot traffic for businesses, less friction for visitors. A win-win.

“Less is More” Business AI Strategy
New York is loud. Every brand, restaurant, and attraction is screaming for attention. But what if AI could help businesses stand out by NOT standing out?
Instead of over-the-top marketing, AI could analyze consumer behavior and offer ultra-personalized, minimalist experiences. No aggressive advertising—just subtle, well-placed services and products exactly when you need them. Simple. Elegant. Effective.

AI’s Real Role? Making Cities Smoother, Not Louder.

After a few days in NYC, I realized something: AI’s job isn’t to be flashy. It’s not Times Square. It’s not loud, overwhelming, or fighting for attention.

The real power of AI is in invisible intelligence—making life effortless, seamless, and stress-free in a city that never stops moving.

So, I’ll ask again: Who’s really making America great again—Trump or AI? One is loud, and one is not. Which one do you choose?

FYI: If you’re looking for a confident, engaging speaker to inspire your audience on how AI is transforming businesses and cities—or why it’s not about taking over but making things better—I’m your person. Whether it’s for your podcast, keynote, or panel discussion, let’s connect and make it happen. LinkedIn: Meelis Tomson; AI Consultant