Trump plans to storm Madison Square Garden, challenging New York’s Democratic stronghold in a bold homecoming rally.
At a Glance
- Trump to hold first-ever rally at Madison Square Garden on October 27
- Event aims to honor police, firemen, teachers, and other NYC contributors
- Trump believes he can win New York despite past losses by over 20 points
- Rally part of an “arena tour” targeting battleground states before November 5 election
- Trump received only 12.3% of Manhattan votes in 2020, compared to Biden’s 86.8%
Trump’s Ambitious New York Strategy
In a move that’s turning heads in the political arena, former President Donald Trump is set to hold a rally at Madison Square Garden on October 27, marking his first-ever campaign event in the heart of Manhattan. This bold strategy comes as Trump aims to shake up the electoral map, believing he can win New York despite its long-standing Democratic leanings.
That’s…huge.
The Madison Square Garden rally is part of Trump’s broader “arena tour” targeting key states in the final stretch before the November 5 election. While New York isn’t typically considered a battleground state, Trump’s campaign sees an opportunity to leverage his hometown roots and challenge the status quo.
Former President Donald Trump is planning a major campaign rally at New York City's Madison Square Garden on Oct. 27, nine days before Election Day, according to a new report. MORE: https://t.co/oVQQHfmv8G pic.twitter.com/FNUwjM4rG7
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) October 9, 2024
Honoring New York’s Finest
Sources close to the campaign indicate that the event aims to honor police, firemen, teachers, and others who contribute to New York’s functioning. This focus on local heroes could be seen as an attempt to build bridges with key community groups and showcase Trump’s commitment to public service and safety.
Trump’s strategy of hosting rallies in non-competitive states like New York, Colorado, and California demonstrates his confidence and determination to expand his base. In New York, where he received only 12.3% of the Manhattan vote in 2020 compared to Joe Biden’s 86.8%, Trump faces an uphill battle. However, his campaign believes that his unique connection to the city could sway voters.
OFFICIAL: Trump to host rally at Madison Square Garden October 27 pic.twitter.com/si9cL7kCf9
— Andrew McCarthy (@AMcCarthyNY) October 9, 2024
Challenges and Controversies
Trump’s New York rally comes with its share of challenges. The former president has faced legal troubles in the state, including a conviction for falsifying business records related to hush money payments. He was also found liable for defamation and sexual abuse of writer E Jean Carroll, although not for rape.
Insane, we know, but these legal issues could potentially impact his reception in the city. We already know, of course, that Antifa are going to try to disrupt it as much as possible – but the fact remains that there are huge numbers of New Yorkers who still love Trump.
Trump is holding a rally at Madison Square Garden later this month, campaign official confirms (h/t CNN). Comes as Trump is holding a rally at Calhoun Ranch near Coachella in California on Saturday.
— Meridith McGraw (@meridithmcgraw) October 9, 2024
Despite these obstacles, Trump has been actively engaging with New York voters. Earlier this year, he held rallies in the Bronx and Long Island, marking his first campaign events in the state in eight years. These gatherings, along with the upcoming Madison Square Garden rally, signal Trump’s determination to compete in traditionally Democratic strongholds.
Are you coming? We may see you there….