Donald Trump sparked controversy at a political rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, by praising fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter and using him to criticize undocumented immigrants.
Trump’s remarks, which drew a crowd of around 80,000 supporters, were met with chants of “bullshit” as he repeated exaggerations about his indictments, comparing himself to Al Capone.
Trump’s supporters, who traveled from across the East Coast, were enthusiastic in their support, with some camping overnight to attend the event. However, New Jersey Democrats dismissed the importance of the rally, stating that many attendees were from out of state and that Trump’s agenda would not lead to better politics.
The event highlighted Trump’s ongoing controversial rhetoric and his attempts to deflect criticism by using fictional characters like Lecter to make a point. The former president’s legal troubles continue, with four indictments and over 80 criminal charges against him, including attempts to subvert the 2020 election outcome and hush-money payments to an adult film actor. The trial over the hush money is set to enter its fourth week.
Despite fact-checkers pointing out Trump’s inaccuracies, he continues to use rhetoric that divides the nation. His supporters see him as a champion of their values, while his critics view him as a dangerous political force. The Wildwood, New Jersey rally was just the latest example of Trump’s ability to draw a crowd and generate controversy.