Former President Donald Trump hosted a rally at New York's Madison Square Garden that stirred controversy with crude and racist insults. The event, intended as a platform for Trump's closing message before Election Day, featured speakers making offensive remarks about various individuals and groups.
One speaker labeled Puerto Rico as a 'floating island of garbage,' while another referred to Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris as 'the devil' and made derogatory comments about her past. These statements drew swift criticism from Harris' campaign and Puerto Rican music superstar Bad Bunny.
Despite attempts by the Trump campaign to distance itself from the offensive remarks, other speakers continued to make incendiary comments. Trump's childhood friend referred to Harris as 'the Antichrist,' while another speaker accused her of being involved in destructive actions.
The rally, which included appearances by notable figures such as Hulk Hogan and Elon Musk, showcased Trump's familiar rhetoric on various issues, including foreign policy and immigration. Trump also introduced a new proposal for a tax credit for family caregivers as part of his campaign promises.
While the event drew a large crowd, some attendees began leaving as Trump's speech extended beyond an hour. The rally also featured attacks on Democrats, with some speakers pushing back against comparisons to a pro-Nazi rally from the past.
Despite the controversial nature of the event, Trump's supporters gathered outside the arena, demonstrating strong enthusiasm for the former president. Trump's return to New York, a city he has often criticized in his speeches, marked a significant moment in his campaign efforts.
As the rally concluded, an opera singer performed 'New York, New York,' with Trump and his wife Melania Trump present on stage.
