Former President Donald Trump’s rally at Huntington Place on Friday faced an extended and awkward interruption after his microphone cut out about 10 minutes into his speech. Trump, visibly affected by the issue, spent several minutes walking around the stage, occasionally gesturing toward the crowd. Supporters responded with chants of “U.S.A.” and “We love Trump,” as the unexpected pause stretched for 18 minutes.
The disruption began just as Trump was discussing his proposal to impose tariffs on imports from China and other countries. He had set up his statement with, “To me, the most beautiful word in the world in the dictionary is not love, it’s not respect …” but the sound cut out before he could finish with the word “tariffs.” Trump remained silent, pacing the stage as the crowd chanted his name.
Message on an electronic sign indicated ‘technical difficulties’
After about 15 minutes, a message appeared on the large screen indicating technical difficulties, and music began to play. By 8:16 p.m., Trump’s microphone was restored, and he joked about the situation, suggesting he might “sue” if the issue persisted.
John Groves, a retired Ford worker and Trump supporter, said the microphone failure was disruptive but thought the former president handled it well.
Trump’s rally was one of several stops in Michigan that day, including events in Hamtramck and Oakland County. Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris was also in the state, campaigning in Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Oakland County.
