Donald Trump held an event at Madison Square Garden, marking a moment of revenge against New York, a city where he has faced indictments and convictions. The arena was packed with supporters from across the United States, with many unable to get in and filling the surrounding streets. As a Kim Jong Un lookalike had his picture taken near the stadium, red “Make America Great Again” hats lit up Fifth Avenue. “I stand here today with a message of hope: With your vote, I will end inflation and restore the American dream,” Trump said, introduced on stage by former First Lady Melania, who made a rare appearance during the campaign. The former president said he was ahead in the polls in key states and promised he would reclaim the White House in nine days.

Trump has been vocal in his criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing her of ruining the country and saying that international enemies are taking advantage of the situation. “She has imported criminals from all over the world, from Venezuela to Congo,” he said. He also claimed that illegal immigration will end under her leadership: “We have become an occupied country. In nine days, on Election Day, there will be a liberation.” He described Harris as unintelligent and incompetent, warning that she could lead to global conflict.

For Trump, the Madison Square Garden event is more than just a campaign rally; it represents the fulfillment of a personal dream, that of reconquering New York and turning it into a Republican stronghold. “They say it’s impossible, but I don’t believe it,” the former president stressed. Stepping onto one of America’s most iconic stages was a great opportunity for him; it has hosted historic events such as Marilyn Monroe’s famous birthday song to John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton’s acceptance of the Democratic nomination in 1992.

Throughout the evening, Trump seemed confident and enthusiastic about the warmth of the audience, which included names such as Elon Musk, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as well as the former president’s children. Donald Trump Jr. said: “The King of New York is back to take back what is his.” He added that this is a unique opportunity to change Washington and regain control of the country.

Lara Trump noted that New York’s greatness was shaped by her father, her husband: “Donald Trump created New York as we know it today.” She also recalled how Ronald Reagan had managed to take the Bronx in the past and then win the state; now she hopes that will happen again with her father-in-law.

Elon Musk, elegantly dressed in black and smiling on stage, urged everyone to go and vote: “Your money is being wasted by the government; we need to take it out of your wallets.” He also argued that it would be possible to reduce the sp