At a Madison Square Garden rally in New York City, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump launched a series of sharp attacks against Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump, addressing a crowded arena, accused Harris of “destroying” the nation and called her a “low IQ individual,” vowing change if he is elected. He framed the upcoming election as a choice between “four more years of incompetence” or a new direction that he promises to lead.
Trump’s speech, lasting about 75 minutes, revisited many of his key campaign promises, including his stance on immigration. He blamed gang violence on illegal immigration and pledged to halt what he called an “invasion of criminals” should he win. His hardline immigration proposals included instituting the death penalty for any undocumented individual who kills a citizen or law enforcement officer. Trump also unveiled a new plan offering tax credits to family caregivers and vowed to rebuild the economy to surpass past successes. He further promised to enforce respect for the American flag, proposing jail time for flag burning.
Madison Square Garden’s 20,000 seats filled hours before Trump spoke, with crowds of supporters wearing “Make America Great Again” hats. Several of Trump’s allies made inflammatory comments during the rally. David Rem, a longtime friend of Trump, referred to Harris as “the Antichrist.” Former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani criticized Harris’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, alleging she sided with “terrorists.” Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe also drew backlash, using offensive language about Puerto Rico and Latino communities.
Harris’s campaign and Puerto Rican supporters, including singer Ricky Martin, condemned the remarks, with Harris asserting that Puerto Ricans deserve a president who values their strength and contributions.
