Former President Donald Trump addressed anger over comedian’s insulting jokes about Latinos and Puerto Rico at a rally, campaigning in Allentown, PA, a majority-Latino city. He expressed solidarity with Puerto Rico and had Puerto Rico’s Republican shadow senator vouch for his commitment to the U.S. territory. Before his speech, other speakers also celebrated Puerto Rico.
The comedian’s remarks at Trump’s rally sparked outrage, particularly among the Puerto Rican population in Pennsylvania. Politicians and entertainers condemned the comment, with efforts to galvanize voters. Trump’s campaign organized a rally in Allentown to affirm support for the island. While the campaign issued a statement that the joke didn’t reflect Trump’s views, Trump has not personally denounced it.
Democrats believe the Puerto Rico slur could have a lasting impact, especially in a tightly contested race for re-election in Pennsylvania. Protesters gathered outside the arena where Trump spoke, expressing anger and frustration at the comment. Some protesters felt that the insult brought back memories of Trump’s handling of Hurricane Maria, where he threw paper towels to residents.
In Pennsylvania, where Trump has made significant gains among Latino voters, the episode threatens to erode his progress. Polls show that Trump has wiped out the advantage Democrats enjoyed among Hispanic men in previous elections. The incident has sparked a debate over the potential impact on the election and whether there will be lasting consequences for Trump’s campaign.
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