Former President Donald Trump is set to hold a rally at Madison Square Garden, marking the start of the final full week of the presidential race. The event is strategically planned to reach audiences in seven battleground states through television and phone screens. Despite New York City being a Democratic stronghold, Trump aims to leverage discontent and local Democratic leadership struggles to support endangered GOP incumbents in surrounding suburbs.
Trump's rally at Madison Square Garden follows a series of visits to blue states, where he has been vocal in blaming his Democratic rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, for issues such as crime and immigration. The iconic venue has a rich political history, having hosted presidents like Grover Cleveland and Franklin D. Roosevelt, as well as events with controversial figures like George Wallace.
For Trump, the event holds personal significance as he fulfills a long-standing desire to take the stage at the Midtown Manhattan landmark. While New York remains a reliably blue state, Trump has expressed optimism about his chances, citing concerns over migrants and crime in the city.
Despite the unlikelihood of winning New York, Republicans see the rally as an opportunity to support vulnerable GOP lawmakers in the state. The event is also expected to serve as a significant fundraiser for the Trump campaign, with various packages offered to donors, including VIP suites and photo opportunities.
The rally will feature prominent speakers such as Trump's running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, tech mogul Elon Musk, and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Additionally, popular internet celebrities and rappers who have endorsed Trump are anticipated to attend.
While the rally won't take place in one of the key battleground states, Trump's aides anticipate extensive media coverage due to the event's location in New York City, the largest media market globally. The campaign aims to capitalize on this coverage to bolster support and visibility in the final stretch of the election.
