In Wildwood, New Jersey, former President Donald Trump addressed a large rally, taking aim at the Manhattan judge and prosecutor overseeing his New York criminal trial. Trump, currently on trial for alleged falsification of business records to conceal a hush money payment to a porn star before the 2016 election, criticized District Attorney Alvin Bragg's appearance and dismissed the charges against him as politically motivated persecution.
Referring to Bragg as "Fat Alvin" and accusing him and trial judge Justice Juan Merchan of acting on behalf of President Joe Biden, Trump's remarks lacked evidence to support his claims. He portrayed the legal actions against him as part of a broader effort to benefit his Democratic rival in the upcoming presidential election.
Despite expressing ambitions to win New Jersey, a traditionally Democratic state where Biden won by a significant margin in 2020, Trump's prospects are slim. However, Wildwood's proximity to Pennsylvania, a pivotal swing state, makes it strategically important for campaigning purposes. During the rally, Trump hinted at potential economic policies, including tax cuts and tariffs, such as a proposed 200% tariff on certain imported cars. The specifics of these policies, including which countries would be affected, were not elaborated upon.
Additionally, Trump pledged to halt offshore wind projects in New Jersey and promised a new, unspecified tax cut. While he has expressed support for extending the major tax cut signed into law in 2017, there is no concrete plan for a new tax cut aimed at the middle class, as suggested in his speech.
Governor Doug Burgum of North Dakota, a former rival in the Republican primary race and now a potential vice-presidential candidate, was also mentioned by Trump. Trump hinted at Burgum potentially playing a major role in his administration, though no specific details were provided.
Overall, Trump's rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, highlighted his ongoing legal challenges and his campaign messaging focused on economic policies, despite facing an uphill battle in the state.