【CSN NEWS】Former President Donald Trump advanced his campaign for a second White House term with a rally at Madison Square Garden, centering on a robust immigration platform that includes a large-scale deportation plan he pledged to begin immediately if re-elected. Framing his approach as a response to what he calls an “immigrant invasion,” Trump emphasized national sovereignty as a cornerstone of his platform.
Trump’s remarks arrive amid efforts by his allies to counter Democratic criticisms, which portray him as authoritarian, in part due to warnings from former chief of staff John Kelly. During his speech, Trump described the U.S. as “an occupied country,” while outside, Democrats projected messages on the arena’s exterior, including phrases like “Trump is Unhinged” and “Trump praised Hitler.”
Billed as the starting point for the final phase of his comeback campaign, the rally saw some of Trump’s prominent supporters deliver inflammatory statements. Former candidate David Rem called Vice President Kamala Harris “the antichrist,” and comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made disparaging remarks about Puerto Rico. Trump’s campaign quickly distanced itself from such comments, with spokesperson Danielle Alvarez clarifying, “This joke does not reflect the views of President Trump or the campaign.”
Trump’s speech intertwined strong anti-immigration rhetoric with a sharp economic message, highlighting American concerns about grocery prices and the economy. His strategy underscores his focus on energizing his core base and appealing to voters frustrated with the current economic conditions, while the Harris campaign hopes this approach may push moderates toward the Democratic ticket in the upcoming election.
The rally ultimately presented a clear choice for voters as the election nears, with Harris championing a shift from Trump’s previous administration style, promising stability and adherence to institutional norms.