Trump Courts Latino Vote in Pennsylvania Amid Controversy
Allentown, PA — Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump made a strategic appeal to Latino voters during a rally on Tuesday at the PPL Center, shortly after facing backlash from a controversial event at Madison Square Garden in New York. During the latter rally, a comedian’s derogatory comments about Puerto Rico sparked outrage.
Despite the controversy, Trump sought to rally support from the Latino community in Allentown, claiming, “I’m so proud that we’re getting support from Latinos like never before.” His statement was met with cheers, and he emphasized his affinity for Latino and Puerto Rican communities by sharing the stage with prominent Latino figures, including Cuban American Senator Marco Rubio and Zoraida Buxó, Puerto Rico’s shadow senator.
However, the event was not free of dissent. Outside the venue, dozens of protesters voiced their disapproval, chanting slogans like “Immigrants make America great” and waving signs condemning his presence. One protester held a sign reading, “Nov 5 is trash day. Let’s put you where you belong!”
While Trump faces tight competition in Pennsylvania—where a recent poll shows him nearly tied with Democratic rival Kamala Harris—he continues to make significant efforts to connect with Latino voters, who represent nearly 9% of the state’s population. Trump asserted that under his leadership, “I will keep your families safe… and Puerto Rico will be very thankful.”
Despite ongoing backlash from the Madison Square Garden rally, where opinions on personal remarks varied, Trump maintained that there was only “love” in that event. Critics, including Puerto Rico’s Republican Party chairman, call for an apology, insisting that Trump’s rhetoric continues to alienate many within the Latino community. Nevertheless, some supporters maintain their allegiance, illustrating the complexity of Trump’s standing among Latino voters as his campaign gears up for the election.
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