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Edited by: Fern Sidman
GOP candidate Donald Trump drew tens of thousands of enthusiastic supporters to a rally at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, marking a major show of strength for the former president in the heart of one of the country’s most liberal cities. According to a report in The New York Post, the event, featuring high-profile guests and spanning over six hours, captivated Trump’s supporters, who left energized and hopeful for his potential return to the presidency. Around 20,000 people filled the venue, with an estimated 20,000 more gathered outside, lining the streets in a show of solidarity.
One attendee, Judah Klein from Midwood, Brooklyn, spoke to The New York Post about the significance of hosting such an event in New York City, a traditional stronghold of Democratic support. “It was such a statement to hold this major event in such a liberal city, and for it to be so packed – this guy has balls. This is my president. After tonight I have no doubt he’s going to win,” Klein said. The packed arena and crowds outside were indeed striking, highlighting Trump’s appeal across various communities in the city.
New York’s Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was among those present and expressed optimism about Trump’s prospects. According to The Post, Blakeman remarked, “I think that he energized New York, and when you come to Madison Square Garden, and not only is it full but there’s tens of thousands of people outside that can’t even get into the arena and thousands of people lining the streets, I think it bodes very well for the election.” Blakeman’s words call attention to the enthusiasm that Trump’s New York City supporters displayed, with lines forming days before the event as attendees hoped to catch a glimpse of the former president.
For many supporters, the rally was about more than just hearing Trump speak; it was a chance to restore a sense of optimism and confidence. Eduard Pantoja, a 49-year-old Staten Island resident, told The Post, “He says he’s going to bring America back on track and I believe him. The last four years have been absolutely miserable for this country, and he gave me confidence tonight that we have a leader.” Pantoja’s sentiments resonated with much of the crowd, reflecting a widespread yearning among attendees for a return to a stronger, more stable America.
The rally was not only notable for its massive turnout but also for the dedication of Trump’s supporters. Doors opened at Madison Square Garden just before noon, with the rally beginning around 2:30 p.m. and continuing until 8:30 p.m., making for a long day for the “MAGA faithful.” According to The Post, some fans had been waiting in line as early as Friday morning to ensure they could see Trump in person, showcasing the intense dedication and anticipation surrounding the event.
During his speech, Trump took a moment to acknowledge New York City Mayor Eric Adams, whom he thanked for making the Madison Square Garden rally possible. As was reported by The Post, Trump noted, “We want to thank Mayor Adams,” and added, “He is going through a hard time with these people.” Trump expressed sympathy for Adams, referencing the mayor’s criticism of New York’s ongoing migrant crisis. He also hinted at the political pressures Adams faces, stating, “Mayor Adams is being treated badly,” and adding, “I predicted he’d be indicted for saying that, and now they’ve indicted him.” Trump’s comments pointed to the complex political dynamics surrounding New York City’s migrant situation and Mayor Adams’ role in addressing it.
Turning to policy, Trump surprised many by voicing strong support for his campaign surrogate, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and outlining Kennedy’s potential role in his administration. The Post reported that Trump praised Kennedy, describing him as someone who “cares more about human beings and health and the environment than anybody.” If re-elected, Trump vowed to give Kennedy significant authority on public health and food-related issues. “I’m gonna let him go wild on health, I’m gonna let him go wild on foods, I’m gonna let him go wild on the medicines,” Trump promised, positioning Kennedy as a key player in a future Trump administration.
This endorsement of Kennedy, known for his anti-vaccine stance, signals Trump’s willingness to cross party lines and collaborate with figures who share his views on health policy and regulatory reform. However, Trump clarified that there would be limits to Kennedy’s influence. According to The Post, Trump remarked that he would not allow Kennedy to influence the country’s oil and gas policies. “The only thing I wouldn’t let him go wild on was ‘the liquid gold that we have under our feet,’” Trump said, referring to oil, as he noted, “JD, I think we’re going to have to keep him away from the oil and gas.”
Kennedy’s background as an environmental lawyer and his recent presidential campaign make him a unique addition to Trump’s campaign circle. By potentially placing Kennedy in charge of health and food policy, Trump has emphasized his commitment to shake up the current approach to these sectors, with Kennedy’s outsider stance bringing an unconventional edge to the proposed collaboration.
Trump also announced a tax credit for family caregivers which was met with thunderous applause, as the former president acknowledged the critical role these individuals play in supporting loved ones, especially seniors. “I’m announcing a new policy today that I will support a tax credit for family caregivers who take care of a parent or a loved one,” Trump declared, according to The Post report. He continued by emphasizing the need to “recognize” these workers, a point that resonated with attendees familiar with the burdens of caregiving.
According to policy documents released at the Republican National Convention in July, Trump’s campaign is committed to protecting Medicare and supporting at-home care options for older Americans. His campaign has pledged to make at-home senior care more accessible by “shifting resources back to at-home senior care, overturning disincentives that lead to care worker shortages, and supporting unpaid family caregivers through tax credits and reduced red tape,” said Trump’s campaign spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, in a statement to USA Today, as reported by The New York Post. The proposal was well-received by many attendees, highlighting Trump’s focus on practical, family-oriented policies as part of his campaign.
In another part of his speech, Trump shared his pride over a significant shift in support within the Muslim community in Michigan. According to The New York Post, Trump claimed that a recent poll indicated that he now has a substantial lead over Vice President Kamala Harris in Michigan’s Muslim population. “Did anybody see what took place, I was with the Muslims yesterday in Michigan,” he said, adding, “When the polls first came out Democrats had 100%, I had zero Muslim support. And yesterday, I watched this anchor on CNN almost choke.” He continued, “Something is happening … a poll just came out … Trump is at 59 [percent support], Kamala is at 8 [percent support] with the Muslim population.”
Trump interpreted the increase in Muslim support as part of a broader trend, noting that Muslims “just want to have peace” and emphasized the inclusiveness of his campaign. He asserted that his message is resonating across religious lines, uniting “Muslims, Jews, and Catholics” under the Republican banner. “The Republican party has become the party of inclusion, and there’s something very nice about that,” Trump said, framing the shift as a testament to his appeal beyond traditional party demographics.
The rally also marked an opportunity for Trump to showcase the depth and breadth of his support base, with some attendees lining up as early as Friday morning for a chance to attend. Many supporters described the atmosphere as electric, with sentiments of optimism for the upcoming election. While Trump’s strong showing at Madison Square Garden speaks to his enduring appeal, it also highlighted his strategic pivot towards inclusive policies and community-focused initiatives, aimed at expanding his coalition.
Reflecting on his numerous investigations, Trump compared his own experience to that of the infamous gangster Al Capone, drawing laughter and support from the crowd. According to The New York Post, he joked that he’s been “under investigation more than ‘the great late Alphonse Capone,’” adding that his late father would be shocked by his current situation. “My father is looking down on me and saying, ‘how the hell did this happen to my son?’” he mused, humorously conveying the toll of his legal battles and their surprising frequency.
In a lighthearted moment, Trump commented on his parents’ likely perspectives from beyond, garnering laughs from the audience. “I know my mother’s in heaven; I’m not a hundred percent sure on my father, but it’s close,” he quipped, according to The New York Post. The line reflected Trump’s knack for blending personal insights with humor, often resonating with supporters who appreciate his openness and comedic approach.
In a family-centered reveal, Trump shared that his youngest son, Barron, was watching the rally from home. “We have Barron at home. He’s watching, Barron is watching,” Trump said. The former president praised Barron’s tech-savviness, calling him “the king of the internet.” As reported by The New York Post, Trump revealed that Barron has been advising him on which podcasts to appear on, playing an informal yet influential role in shaping his father’s media strategy. Trump’s openness about Barron’s involvement adds a humanizing touch, underscoring the family’s cohesion and Barron’s growing engagement in his father’s campaign.
Prior to Trump taking the stage, several high-profile figures delivered remarks. House Speaker Mike Johnson spoke, showing strong alignment with Trump’s platform, while billionaire Elon Musk addressed the crowd, advocating for budget cuts and government efficiency initiatives. UFC President Dana White also appeared in support, and wrestling icon Hulk Hogan made a notable appearance, speaking in defense of Trump’s policies. These figures joined Trump to bolster the event’s agenda amid the intense final days of the campaign.
The rally was both entertaining and strategically revealing, blending Trump’s personal humor, family dynamics, and ambitious policy ideas. The former president’s appeal to collaboration and willingness to challenge conventional alliances signify a campaign that aims to resonate with diverse voter bases. With lighthearted family anecdotes, policy pledges, and his trademark humor, Trump’s recent rally highlighted a campaign both focused on the future and deeply connected to his unique approach to leadership.
