On Wednesday, Donald Trump seized the opportunity to campaign, despite being on a court break from his criminal charges in New York. This was the first time he had time to campaign since the trial began. He held rallies in Waukesha, Wisconsin and Freeland, Michigan, both crucial states for the upcoming elections against President Joe Biden.
In his speeches, Trump addressed the student protests against Israel’s war in Gaza, expressing his support for law enforcement in dealing with what he referred to as “angry lunatics” and Hamas sympathizers. He used these protests to criticize the left while downplaying the violence from extreme right during his presidency.
Trump repeated his usual themes of immigration, tax increases under Biden and deportation of Palestinian refugees at both rallies. He also attacked Judge Juan Merchan for issuing a fine for contempt and labeled the entire legal process as “electoral interference.” Trump criticized restrictions on his public statements and highlighted his lead in the polls in Wisconsin while projecting a second term in office.
Despite ongoing legal battles, Trump remained focused on his campaign and emphasized dramatic entrances at both rallies. His speeches continued to focus on his agenda and painted a picture of what may hold under his leadership. Overall, Trump’s day off from court proceedings allowed him to connect with supporters, address ongoing issues in country and rally base for upcoming elections.