On Saturday, former President Donald Trump held a rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, where he criticized Vice President Kamala Harris’s physical appearance and addressed several key policy issues. This appearance came amidst calls from some Republican figures urging Trump to concentrate more on policy debates rather than personal attacks.
At the rally, Trump remarked on a recent Time magazine cover featuring Harris, suggesting that it was an artist’s sketch rather than a genuine photograph. “I’m much more attractive than Kamala,” Trump declared to his enthusiastic supporters. “The magazine didn’t even use a real picture of her—they hired a sketch artist instead.”
Trump’s comments were part of a broader critique aimed at Harris and her Democratic allies. He expressed frustration with what he perceives as a shift in the political landscape. “I was running against Biden, but now it seems like I’m up against someone else,” Trump said. “I asked, ‘Who is this Harris?’”
In response, Joseph Costello, a spokesperson for Harris’s campaign, criticized Trump’s rhetoric. “Once again, we see Donald Trump resorting to personal attacks because he can’t defend his dangerous agenda,” Costello stated. He accused Trump of promoting a plan that would raise taxes, dismantle the Affordable Care Act, and threaten personal freedoms.
Trump also targeted Pennsylvania Democrats, including Governor Josh Shapiro and Senator Bob Casey, who is seeking reelection. He alleged that Shapiro was not selected as Harris’s running mate due to his Jewish heritage, reiterating his contentious views on Jewish voters and their political choices.
Further criticism came from Trump towards several mainstream media outlets, including ABC News, which will host the upcoming presidential debate. His remarks reflect ongoing tension with the media and his broader campaign strategy.
Despite the personal jabs, Trump also addressed policy issues at the rally. He criticized Harris’s new economic plan, which he labeled as “socialist price controls,” drawing comparisons to failed policies from socialist regimes. He also invited a Venezuelan supporter on stage to share his experiences under former President Hugo Chavez.
On energy policy, Trump took aim at Harris’s stance on fracking, a critical issue for Pennsylvania voters. “Harris wants to ban fracking,” Trump said. “That’s a vital source of energy and jobs for Pennsylvania. This state needs its energy industry to thrive.”
With Pennsylvania’s 19 Electoral College votes crucial for the upcoming election, Trump is focusing on key battlegrounds. He narrowly won the state in 2016 but lost it to President Biden in 2020. Current polling shows a tight race, with Harris slightly ahead in Pennsylvania, highlighting the state’s importance in the November election.