Former President Donald Trump is preparing for an ambitious rally at the iconic Madison Square Garden on Sunday evening. This decision marks a departure from focusing on critical battleground states as he chooses to dedicate his time to a high-profile “epic event,” as declared by the Trump campaign. Known for his passionate gatherings, Trump’s appearance in New York City is generating buzz for its potential impact on his campaign.
This isn’t the first time Trump has rallied in and around New York City. Back in May, during his felony hush-money trial, the former president campaigned in the South Bronx, courting minority voters and emphasizing his connection to the community. Later, in September, Trump made headlines with a rally in Long Island, where he energized his supporters by declaring, “We are going to win New York.” However, despite his efforts, Trump has faced consistently uphill battles in his home state, losing by around 23 percentage points in the previous presidential elections.
Current polling averages indicate that Trump is trailing Vice President Kamala Harris by approximately 15 points in New York, a state that has become emblematic of his electoral struggles.
Despite this significant challenge, the Trump campaign is pouring substantial resources and bringing on star power for Sunday’s event at Madison Square Garden. High-profile surrogates, including former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard from Hawaii, tech mogul Elon Musk, and Trump’s running mate Sen. JD Vance from Ohio, are all poised to address the crowd. Their presence underscores the campaign’s commitment to mobilizing support, even as they choose to forego key swing states—regions that are critical for securing a victory in the presidential race.
In stark contrast, Vice President Harris spent her Sunday strategically in Pennsylvania, a pivotal swing state, where she engaged with the community post-sermon at the Church of Christian Compassion in West Philadelphia. Her involvement included a visit to Hakim’s Bookstore and a meaningful meeting with a group of young Black men at a local barbershop, where she took a moment to sit in what was referred to as the “lucky chair,” a traditional spot known among the barbers for its supposed influence on electoral success.
House control via New York
A closer look at the guest list for the Madison Square Garden rally reveals a strategic consideration behind the event. Prominent Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, are set to attend, highlighting their importance within the party structure.
Back in 2022, Republicans narrowly clinched control of the U.S. House, in part due to victories in key New York districts that elected Republicans like Rep. Nick LaLota, Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, and Rep. Mike Lawler. These representatives, covering a spectrum from Long Island to Syracuse, are gearing up for difficult races against Democratic challengers this November. Although Trump may not secure a win in New York during this election cycle, the campaign is focused on sustaining Republican dominance in the House.
Beyond its political implications, the rally at Madison Square Garden is attracting attention—an essential asset as the election approaches. The venue itself boasts a rich history in politics; in 1936, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a pivotal and spirited address there, attacking the political establishment. Just a few years later, in 1939, the arena hosted a “Pro America Rally” that controversially supported Adolf Hitler.
Additionally, in 1962, Marilyn Monroe famously sang “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy at the venue. More recently, in 2004, Madison Square Garden was the site of the Republican National Convention. Now, it once again welcomes a Republican figure in a highly charged political atmosphere.
