Former President Donald Trump praised Milwaukee just weeks before it hosts the Republican National Convention, attempting to clean up after reportedly using the word “horrible” to describe Wisconsin’s largest city. Trump, who was reported to have used the word in a closed-door meeting with Republicans, clarified his stance during an event in Racine, Wisconsin, emphasizing his love for Milwaukee. Wisconsin is a key battleground state in the upcoming presidential election, with both Trump and Biden targeting it heavily this year.
The event in Racine had a small-town Fourth of July celebration vibe, with supporters gathered to hear Trump speak. Before his arrival, country music played, and American flags waved near Lake Michigan. The crowd, dressed in red, white, and blue, displayed signs declaring Wisconsin as “Trump country.” Trump addressed immigration issues during his speech, criticizing Biden’s policies and announcing his administration’s plan to allow certain spouses of U.S. citizens without legal status to apply for permanent residency and citizenship.
Trump rejected reports that he planned to stay overnight in Chicago instead of Milwaukee during the convention, highlighting the rivalry between the two cities. He also denied referring to Milwaukee as “horrible” in the closed-door meeting, attributing the statement to lies spread by “radical left lunatics.” Trump’s allies who were present at the meeting supported his claim that he was discussing crime and voter fraud in Milwaukee. The ongoing Senate race between Democrat Tammy Baldwin and her likely opponent Eric Hovde was also a topic of discussion at the rally, with Trump endorsing Hovde as the candidate needed to defeat Baldwin.
Supporters at the rally expressed concerns about the economy, with many citing issues such as inflation and rising crime rates. Emmanuel McKinstry, a Black businessman in Racine, credited Trump’s presidency for the success of small businesses like his but voiced worries about the current economic climate under Biden. Dimple Navratil, a woman business owner in Racine, and Samantha Cross, a mother from Illinois, highlighted the impact of Trump’s policies on small businesses and families. Matthew Brown, a resident struggling with rising rent costs, expressed hope that Trump could bring about positive change if re-elected.
The turnout for the event in Racine reflected the strong support for Trump among his base, with hundreds of supporters lining up hours before his speech. Issues such as the economy, immigration, and the upcoming Senate race were among the key topics discussed at the rally. Trump’s visit to Wisconsin aimed to rally his supporters ahead of the 2024 Election and emphasize the importance of key battleground states like Wisconsin in determining the outcome of the presidential race. Overall, the event showcased the continued enthusiasm for Trump among his loyal followers and highlighted the key issues shaping the upcoming election.
