Former President Donald Trump took New York by storm on Sunday, packing 20,000 fans into Madison Square Garden for a high-energy, five-hour rally.
With his wife, Melania, making a surprise appearance, Trump made bold declarations, forecasting a Republican win in New York for the first time in four decades. His rally highlighted his criticisms of Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic policies, urging New Yorkers to help “reclaim the city” with him at the helm.
But racist jokes by some of the speakers cast a shadow over this otherwise impressive event. “There’s a lot going on. I don’t know if you know this, but there’s literally a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean right now,” said comedian Tony Hinchliffe at the rally, who goes by the stage name Kill Tony.
He paused before delivering his punch line. “I think it’s called Puerto Rico.”
It caused an instant firestorm in media outlets and on social media, driven also by celebrities with ties to the Island, like singer Jennifer Lopez.
Concerns are brewing behind the scenes of the Trump campaign about how his portrayal as a “racist” and “fascist” could resonate with undecided voters. Trump’s longtime friend, David Rem, even called Vice President Harris the “antichrist,” a comment that went viral as quickly as it was condemned.
The Trump campaign’s uncharacteristic defensive response suggests growing worries about alienating key voter groups, particularly the sizable Puerto Rican community in Pennsylvania.
Star-Studded Speaker Lineup: Musk, Carlson, Melania and More
The rally featured a host of notable names. Elon Musk took the stage to praise Trump’s vision for the nation. And Melania Trump made her first campaign appearance, introducing her husband to roaring applause. Dressed impeccably, she brought the crowd to its feet with a short but impactful speech. “New York City and America need their magic back,” she said, setting the tone for a night of fiery speeches and ambitious promises.
Trump Promises a New Era for New York
Trump passionately addressed his hometown, pledging to restore the “once-great” city to its former glory. His message to New Yorkers was clear: “We’re going to bring it back strong.” He urged supporters to vote, reminding them that early voting had just begun.
Trump Jr. Declares His Father “The King of New York”
Donald Trump Jr. took the stage with a resounding endorsement, calling his father “The King of New York.” With patriotic lights illuminating the arena, he fueled the crowd’s enthusiasm, proclaiming that Trump was making a serious play for New York, despite naysayers.
Rally Brings Out Trump’s Allies and Fans Alike
Among the speakers were UFC’s Dana White and Hulk Hogan, both rallying for Trump. Dr. Phil also made a surprise appearance, defying Hollywood norms to show his support. The night ended with calls for action, as Trump vowed to bring New York “back to where it belongs.”
New York’s Path to a Red Wave?
The rally closed with a final push for New York, as Trump’s team and allies speculated on the possibility of turning the blue state red. With a week until Election Day, Trump’s Madison Square Garden spectacle showed his dedication to an unlikely victory in the Empire State.
