Former President Trump has once again defied political expectations by hosting a significant rally in one of New York City’s most staunchly Democratic areas, Crotona Park in the Bronx. On Thursday, Trump addressed a massive crowd, which his campaign estimated at 25,000 supporters—far surpassing the anticipated 3,500 attendees. Even those unable to enter the park lined up outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of the former president.
Trump’s speech was a passionate call to action, promising to “turn New York City around” and make it “bigger, better, and greater than ever before.” He highlighted the city’s rich history but expressed concern over its current state, mentioning issues like violent crime on subways and widespread homeless encampments. He criticized President Biden for failing the people of the Bronx and labeled him as “grossly incompetent.”
In a bold declaration, Trump said, “If a New Yorker can’t save this city, no one can,” drawing loud cheers from the crowd. He pledged to collaborate with Democratic leaders such as Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams to revitalize the city and state. His proposed initiatives included renovating the subway system, cleaning up parks, and addressing homelessness and mental health issues.
However, before Trump spoke, a woman spoke, and it was one of the best grassroots speeches many have heard in a long time.
“Keep your welfare; we DON’T want your welfare; we want jobs,” she declared.
It was an incredible speech.
This lady’s speech at the Trump rally was beyond amazing, her message to the Democrats running New York was sensational
“Keep your welfare, we DON’T want your welfare, we want jobs.”
In November, we the sovereign rulers of this country will dismantle the political narratives… pic.twitter.com/MTdW2Kjs3l
— George (@BehizyTweets) May 24, 2024
During his speech, Trump also focused on the national economic challenges under the Biden administration, emphasizing the impact on Black and Hispanic families. He reiterated his common themes about energy, inflation, and foreign policy weaknesses. The rally attracted attention even from CNN correspondent Kristen Holmes, who expressed surprise at the level of support Trump garnered in such a traditionally Democratic area.
Holmes noted the crowd’s diversity, with many attendees hailing from the Bronx and beyond, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Connecticut. She remarked that while some locals opposed Trump’s presence, others who had previously supported Biden were now disillusioned with the current administration and considering Trump as an alternative.
Even CNN is admitting President Trump’s rally in the Bronx was a massive success:
“Certainly a bigger crowd than I think Democrats would like to see, particularly given this is one of the bluest counties in the entire country!” 🔥 pic.twitter.com/XScfuQmnVa
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) May 24, 2024
Trump’s decision to hold the rally in the Bronx, a borough known for its racial diversity and strong Democratic leanings, drew sharp criticism from his opponents. Governor Hochul referred to Trump’s supporters as “clowns,” and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez celebrated the possibility of bad weather disrupting the event. However, the weather held, and the rally proceeded as planned.
The event showcased a diverse audience, including Black, Hispanic, White, Asian, and Muslim supporters. Trump’s previous election results in the Bronx were modest, with less than 10% of the vote in 2016 and a slight increase to 16% in 2020. However, recent polls suggest he is gaining more traction with Black and Hispanic voters.
New York has not voted for a Republican presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan’s landslide victory in 1984. Despite this historical trend, Trump’s rally in the Bronx indicates a potential shift as he continues to mobilize support in unexpected places.
