Park51 developers publicly reject Trump's "buyout" offer
The developers of the Park51 Islamic community center near Ground Zero publicly rejected Trump's offer to buy the site for $6 million (a 25% premium). Developer Sharif El-Gamal called the offer a "publicity stunt" and reaffirmed their right to build on their own property. Trump's failed attempt to use his wealth to dictate the location of a religious institution underscored his willingness to leverage financial power for culture-war victories.
"It’s a cheap attempt to get publicity." — Park51 developer response