Crowds lined the streets around Madison Square Garden as early as 8 a.m. Sunday morning, eight hours before former President Donald Trump was scheduled to speak. Though the rally was set for 5 p.m., sidewalks around the New York City venue were filled with supporters of all ages, waving American flags and wearing Trump merchandise in the crisp morning air.

Preparing for the Main Event

Security closed off surrounding roads, with a heavy police presence including NYPD drones, antiterrorism units, and a helicopter to ensure safety for the thousands in attendance. Vendors selling Trump memorabilia were already in place, and an air of anticipation filled the area. “Madison Square Garden is the center of the universe,” said Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller, referencing the venue’s storied history of hosting major events like the 1971 “Fight of the Century.”

Trump’s Star-Studded Lineup

Trump’s rally was packed with prominent speakers, including his vice-presidential running mate Sen. J.D. Vance, Elon Musk, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In a rare appearance, Melania Trump introduced her husband, marking her first public speech of this election cycle.

“Trump has always had big dreams about a rally in this iconic venue,” former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin commented, noting Trump’s longstanding desire to bring his campaign to Madison Square Garden. Republican delegates hope the event might signal a shift in typically blue New York.

A Packed Arena and Campaign Highlights

The rally’s turnout appeared to fill every seat, and Trump’s entrance was met with applause, standing ovations, and chants from the crowd. In his remarks, Trump criticized Vice President Kamala Harris as a “trainwreck,” outlining his stances on immigration, crime, and the economy. “We will rapidly defeat inflation, and we will very simply make America affordable again,” he promised, followed by a video montage highlighting the impact of immigration.

Trump took a detour from standard battleground states with this rally, aiming for the hearts of New Yorkers. However, he assured the crowd that “people tuning in from battleground states” would be watching closely. The rally attracted a mixed crowd, with attendees from nearby neighborhoods and others who traveled from different parts of the country. “Just look around,” NYC Councilwoman Inna Vernikov said, noting the enthusiastic support for Trump in a typically liberal city.

Controversial Language Before Trump’s Speech

Before Trump’s arrival, some guest speakers used inflammatory language, drawing backlash. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe’s jokes included references that many found offensive, and radio host Sid Rosenberg used explicit language about prominent figures. Campaign advisor Danielle Alvarez clarified that these comments “do not reflect the views of President Trump or the campaign,” stating they had not been reviewed in advance. Mayor Eric Adams condemned the remarks, calling for all speakers to avoid hateful rhetoric in the future.

Rallying Support in Final Days Before Election

With nine days remaining until Election Day, Trump’s campaign is focused on issues like crime, the economy, and immigration, aiming to sway undecided voters. A recent CBS poll showed Trump and Harris in a tight race, each polling at around 50% in battleground states.