Speakers at NYC Trump Rally Launch Insults at Puerto Ricans and Mock Harris’ Heritage

Former President Donald Trump energized supporters on Sunday with a rally at Madison Square Garden, where he declared his vision for “America’s new golden age.” As he prepares for the final stretch of the 2024 presidential race against Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump promised a return to strong borders and international peace.

The six-hour event featured nearly 30 speakers, with Trump emphasizing his America First agenda. “We will not be overrun, we will not be conquered,” he proclaimed. His assurance of quick change resonated with a crowd eager for his trademark messaging about national pride and economic prosperity.

However, the rally also sparked significant backlash. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe drew ire for derogatory remarks about Puerto Rico, calling it a “floating island of garbage.” Such comments may damage Republican efforts to court Latino voters, particularly in Pennsylvania, where a substantial Puerto Rican population resides. Criticism from Democrats was swift, with U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemning the remarks as indicative of a broader disdain for those less affluent.

Amid the controversy, Trump reiterated his campaign promises, including tax breaks for those caring for elderly relatives and a return to military strength. He vowed to ban “transgender insanity” from schools and urged for a restoration of peace in conflict zones like Ukraine and the Middle East, claiming that such turmoil would not have occurred under his administration.

The rally took place just nine days before election day, as early voting numbers rose sharply, with nearly 42 million ballots cast nationwide. While Trump focused on New York, upcoming campaign stops are planned in battleground states like New Mexico and Virginia.

Harris countered Trump’s New York appearance with her own rally in Philadelphia, highlighting her commitment to Puerto Rican issues. She criticized Trump’s divisive rhetoric, which she argued alienates voters looking for unity.

The rally included fiery speeches from prominent Republicans. Tucker Carlson, while lampooning Harris, underscored Trump’s influence, saying, “Donald Trump has made it possible for the rest of us to tell the truth about the world around us.” Meanwhile, other speakers took aim at Harris using racially charged language, further polarizing the narrative.

Trump’s rally also boasted a variety of speakers, including celebrity figures such as Elon Musk, who encouraged the crowd to vote early for a “massive crushing victory.” The event was layered in the nostalgia of New York, a city closely tied to Trump’s identity, encapsulating his rise from real estate mogul to political figure. The day concluded with a performance of “New York, New York,” leaving supporters with a triumphant note as they prepare for the upcoming election.