Former President Donald Trump took to the Jersey Shore for a beachfront rally on Saturday, resuming his campaign activities amidst the ongoing trial in New York over hush money allegations.
The rally, held in Wildwood, South New Jersey, is Trump’s third since the commencement of his trial four weeks ago. While New Jersey traditionally leans Democratic and was won by President Joe Biden in 2020, Trump expressed confidence in his ability to secure the state, particularly emphasizing the favorable reception he received in Cape May County, a Republican-friendly district where he garnered significant support in both 2016 and 2020.
Despite some Republican reservations about allocating campaign resources to a state not typically viewed as competitive, the Trump campaign viewed the rally as an opportunity to leverage media coverage in nearby Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state. Anticipating attendees from Philadelphia and its suburbs, the campaign aimed to capitalize on the proximity to the influential media market of Philadelphia.
During his address, Trump lauded North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, hinting at potential future collaborations and fueling speculation about Burgum as a potential running mate.
This rally marked Trump’s return to Wildwood, where he previously campaigned in support of Congressman Jeff Van Drew, who switched party affiliations during Trump’s first impeachment trial and remains a staunch ally of the former president.
Trump utilized the rally to criticize President Biden's handling of the Israel-Gaza conflict, framing it as a betrayal of a crucial ally. Despite ongoing legal proceedings, Trump has prioritized fundraising and limited campaign appearances, prompting speculation about his strategic choices during this crucial period leading up to the general election.
In his remarks, Trump disparaged Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and denounced the trial as a "sham," attributing it to political motives. Despite questions about the campaign’s allocation of resources and Trump’s absence from some swing states, strategists suggest proximity to his trial location and personal preferences may have influenced the decision to rally in New Jersey.