A Donald Trump rally held at Madison Square Garden on October 27, 2024, featured heated rhetoric from speakers targeting Democratic figures, Puerto Rico, and migrants.
The event opened with comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who made remarks about Puerto Rico in a city known for its large Puerto Rican population, calling it “a floating island of garbage.” His comments, reported by CNN, drew applause from Trump supporters in attendance.
Throughout the rally, other speakers continued the critical tone, with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson targeting Kamala Harris, suggesting that her possible election as president would lead to increased social pressure on Americans to show admiration for her.
Carlson stated, “It’s gonna be pretty hard to look at (the country after Harris wins) and say, you know what, Kamala Harris, she got 85 million votes because she’s so impressive.”
The remarks on Puerto Rico prompted responses from prominent figures, including pop star Bad Bunny, who shared a video of Harris discussing her plans for the island with his 45 million Instagram followers.
Republican Senator Rick Scott of Florida, where the Puerto Rican community is substantial, also criticized the remarks, posting on X that the joke was “not funny and it’s not true. Puerto Ricans are amazing people and amazing Americans!”
Additionally, radio host Sid Rosenberg echoed sentiments expressed by Trump in past speeches, criticizing migrants residing in New York City and comparing their living conditions with those of American veterans.
“You got homeless and veterans…sleeping on their own feces on a bench in Central Park,” Rosenberg said, adding, “But the f**king illegals, they get whatever they want, don’t they?”
Hinchcliffe responded to the criticism of his comments, saying on social media, “I love Puerto Rico and vacation there. I made fun of everyone…watch the whole set.”
Despite his defense, the rally stirred growing tension around issues of immigration and public services, with notable pushback from Harris supporters and Puerto Rican leaders. The incident has amplified calls for accountability from rally organizers and further heightened the national debate on race, immigration, and social justice.
