Trump Supporters ‘Streaming for the Exits’ During Controversial Rally at Madison Square Garden
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo By Michael Ciaglo
Former President Donald Trump hosted a controversial rally at Madison Square Garden in New York on Sunday, but reports suggest that even some of his own fans were “streaming for the exits” while he was still speaking. The event, which stirred widespread backlash, has drawn comparisons to an infamous Nazi gathering held at the same location in the 1930s, with Trump facing renewed accusations of fascist tendencies.
Historians and critics alike have expressed outrage over Trump’s choice of venue, especially given recent allegations from former associates who claimed that Trump had expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler’s military leaders, wishing his own generals were similarly loyal. The rally also featured inflammatory rhetoric, including a comment from one speaker that was so controversial it prompted disavowal from Trump’s campaign and closest allies.
The divisive atmosphere at the event led some Trump supporters, like Meghan McCain, a prominent political commentator and daughter of the late Republican Senator John McCain, to voice concerns about the impact of the rally. McCain warned that the rhetoric on display could “backfire” and potentially cost Trump the upcoming election. She highlighted the risk of alienating voters, even within Trump’s own base, due to the event’s extreme tone.
In a surprising development, some of Trump’s own supporters appeared to grow weary of the rally. According to CNN politics reporter D.J. Judd, attendees began leaving the venue while Trump was still on stage. “We’re about an hour into former President Donald Trump’s much-ballyhooed Madison Square Garden remarks— but Trump took the stage about two hours late,” Judd reported. “Perhaps mindful of how late it’s getting, supporters have begun streaming for the exits, even though he’s still speaking.”
The report quickly drew attention from political figures. Vice President Kamala Harris’ director of rapid response, Ammar Moussa, responded with a simple but pointed comment: “Oof.” Moussa elaborated, saying, “Even Trump supporters are tired of his long rambling performances focused entirely on himself.” His reaction suggests that the Harris campaign sees Trump’s diminishing support as an opportunity to gain traction.
The rally also attracted commentary from other public figures. Artist Art Candee weighed in on social media, stating, “People left Donald Trump’s sad hate rally early at Madison Square Garden.” Candee’s remarks echoed a growing sentiment among observers who viewed the event as a misstep for Trump’s campaign.
Despite the criticism, Trump’s team has yet to officially respond to the reports of supporters leaving early. However, this incident raises questions about Trump’s ability to energize his base as the 2024 election approaches. With influential figures like McCain suggesting the rally could have negative repercussions, Trump’s campaign may need to reconsider its approach to connecting with voters.
As the fallout from the rally continues, Trump’s detractors are likely to use the event as evidence of his increasingly divisive tactics and alienating behavior. On the other hand, Trump’s loyal supporters may rally behind him, dismissing the criticism as media bias. Either way, the event has already become a flashpoint in the ongoing political debate, underscoring the high stakes of the upcoming election season.
