Former President Donald J. Trump took a break from his criminal trial in Manhattan to attend a rally on the beach in Wildwood, New Jersey, where he reiterated criticisms of President Biden. Despite the state’s Democratic leanings and his previous losses there, Mr. Trump claimed that he could win New Jersey in the upcoming election. The rally drew a large crowd of supporters, many of whom were drawn to the boardwalk town by their conservative values and the promise of lower costs and more weekends at the shore under a Trump presidency.
The rally in New Jersey stood in stark contrast to the somber atmosphere of the Manhattan courthouse where Mr. Trump’s trial is taking place. At the rally, he continued to criticize President Biden for his stance on Israel and expressed his unequivocal support for Israel’s military strategy. The event marked only Mr. Trump’s third rally since the start of his trial, with previous stops in battleground states like Wisconsin and Michigan. Despite facing a gag order that limits his comments on the trial specifics, Mr. Trump emphasized his belief in Israel’s right to defend itself from terrorism.
Mr. Trump’s New Jersey rally drew thousands of supporters to the beaches of Wildwood, where vendors set up shop selling Trump merchandise and attendees cheered his promises to boost the middle class and protect American traditions. His speech echoed his usual talking points about immigration, the economy, and the 2020 election, all while setting a hopeful tone for his chances in the upcoming election. Despite skepticism from political experts and his own advisers, Mr. Trump remained confident in his ability to win over New Jersey voters in November.
The boardwalk town of Wildwood served as a fitting backdrop for Mr. Trump’s rally, with its Americana charm and working-class appeal aligning with the former president’s message. Though he faces legal troubles in Manhattan, Mr. Trump used the rally as an opportunity to connect with his base and energize supporters ahead of the election. As he faces a contempt charge and possible jail time in the trial, Mr. Trump focused on rallying his base and promoting his vision for the country, particularly in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania with a mix of conservative and swing voters.
