Lawmakers, Community Groups React after Trump Rally Draws Criticism for Comedian’s Comments on Puerto Rico
GOP Voices Frustration, Disgust over Trump MSG Rally
A former President Donald Trump took the stage at Madison Square Garden Sunday evening, but the rally was met with criticism over comments made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe during his opening set.
Trump Campaign Distances Itself from Comedian’s Remarks
Hinchcliffe’s joke, "There’s literally a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean right now. I think it’s called Puerto Rico," sparked outrage. The Trump campaign quickly distanced itself from the comment, stating that it did not reflect the views of the former president or the campaign. However, Hinchcliffe remained unapologetic, claiming that his critics had "no sense of humor."
Puerto Rican Lawmakers and Community Groups Protest
Reacting to the controversy, Puerto Rican lawmakers and community groups in Chicago expressed outrage and disappointment. U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-New York) criticized the Trump campaign, stating, "None of that was an accident. These campaign events are put together, they are vetted, that language was vetted by the Trump campaign." Jose Lopez, executive director of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, added, "When you try to demonize this population, that is no different than treating us like garbage, that is his way of thinking the MAGA movement. You cannot extrapolate Trump from this incredibly horribly hurting racist remark."
Kamala Harris Weighs In
Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the controversial remarks, saying, "My opponent spends time talking about diminishing who we are as Americans, and talking down at people that we’re the garbage can of the world. We’re not."
Campaigning in the Homestretch
Trump and Harris are gearing up for their final week of campaigning before the midterms. Trump spoke at a gathering of pastors in Georgia on Monday and will host a rally in Atlanta later in the week. Harris will tour a semiconductor factory in Michigan, visit a union training facility, and deliver a speech at the White House.
Conclusion
As the campaign season enters its final stretch, the controversy surrounding the Trump rally highlights the importance of respectful language and inclusive rhetoric in political discourse. As lawmakers and community groups continue to react, it remains to be seen how these events will impact the outcome of the midterm elections.
FAQs
- What was the comedian’s joke that sparked controversy?
The comedian, Tony Hinchcliffe, made a joke about Puerto Rico being a "floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean." - How did the Trump campaign respond to the controversy?
The Trump campaign distanced itself from the comedian’s remarks, stating that they did not reflect the views of the former president or the campaign. - Who is criticizing the Trump campaign’s response?
Puerto Rican lawmakers and community groups are criticizing the Trump campaign’s response, arguing that the jokes were vetted and reflect the campaign’s views. - How are the candidates planning their final week of campaigning?
Trump will host rallies in Atlanta and other cities, while Harris will tour Michigan and give a speech at the White House.
