Vice President Kamala Harris publicly condemned former President Donald Trump’s recent rally at Madison Square Garden, stating it highlighted what she describes as his continued focus on divisive and inflammatory rhetoric. Harris’s critique follows Trump’s New York rally, where some speakers drew backlash for remarks targeting Democrats, immigrants, and Puerto Rico.
“Last night’s rally was a clear reminder of the divisive approach that I have spoken out against throughout this campaign,” Harris told reporters before traveling to Michigan. “Donald Trump is fixated on grievances, self-interest, and fanning the flames of hate and division in our country.”
Although Trump’s remarks at the Madison Square Garden rally largely stayed on familiar themes, some of the event’s opening acts sparked significant controversy. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, one of the speakers, made offensive comments about Puerto Rico, referring to it as “a floating island of garbage.” Hinchcliffe’s remark, which was made in New York City—a place with a large Puerto Rican community—sparked strong reactions from both Democrats and some Republicans.
The Trump campaign quickly distanced itself from Hinchcliffe’s comments, with spokesperson Danielle Alvarez clarifying, “This joke does not reflect the views of President Trump or the campaign.”
On Monday, Harris reaffirmed her support for Puerto Rico, visiting a Puerto Rican restaurant in North Philadelphia to show solidarity. She also emphasized her commitment to addressing Puerto Rico’s needs, pledging a specialized task force as part of her larger economic plan. “My administration will prioritize Puerto Rico’s needs through a dedicated task force,” Harris stated, underscoring her plans for the island.
Harris received additional support from Puerto Rican celebrities, including superstar Bad Bunny, who endorsed her commitment to Puerto Rico shortly after the rally. Bad Bunny posted a social media clip of Harris’s speech about Puerto Rico, signaling his support following Hinchcliffe’s divisive remarks at Trump’s event.
Despite some backlash within the GOP over Hinchcliffe’s comments, Harris suggested that Trump’s rally message was not a departure from his usual tone. “What we saw last night isn’t new; it’s more of the same divisive rhetoric we’ve come to expect from him,” she said. “Trump’s commitment to fueling division and hate is why so many Americans are tired of his leadership.”
Report contributed by Mogtma News
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