Former President Donald Trump vigorously attacked the legal proceedings against him during a rally in New Jersey, condemning the prosecutor and judge overseeing his New York criminal trial.
Speaking to a large crowd on the Atlantic coastline, Trump disparaged District Attorney Alvin Bragg, referring to him as “Fat Alvin” and labeling him as corrupt. He also targeted Justice Juan Merchan, accusing both men of acting at the direction of President Joe Biden, although there is no evidence to support this claim.
Trump portrayed the charges against him, including allegations of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to a porn star, as politically motivated persecution.
Despite pleading not guilty to all charges in the multiple state and federal trials he faces, Trump has consistently framed them as part of a larger political vendetta.
The rally, held in Wildwood, New Jersey, a conservative enclave in a largely Democratic state, served as a platform for Trump to assert his determination to win the state, despite its recent Democratic leanings.
Trump’s focus on Pennsylvania, a nearby swing state, suggests a strategic alignment with battleground areas where his messaging might resonate.
During his speech, Trump hinted at potential economic policies, including tax cuts and tariffs. He recounted a conversation with an automotive executive about imposing a 200% tariff on certain imported cars, although the specifics of this proposal remained unclear.
Trump also pledged to halt offshore wind projects in New Jersey and promised a new tax cut without providing detailed plans.
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, a former rival turned potential vice-presidential candidate, warmed up the crowd before Trump’s speech. Trump’s reference to Burgum potentially assuming a significant administration role hints at ongoing political maneuvers within the Republican Party.
