“Nothing to Do With Us”: Trump Denies Responsibility for Comedian’s Racist Remarks at NYC Rally Amid Backlash

Former President Donald Trump distanced himself from a comedian’s controversial joke about Puerto Rico at a rally over the weekend, denying any responsibility for the remark during a Fox News interview Tuesday night with host Sean Hannity. The rally, held at Madison Square Garden, featured Texas-based comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, whose joke about Puerto Rico as “a floating island of garbage” ignited a wave of backlash.

Trump’s GOP allies quickly sought damage control, given the importance of Puerto Rican voters in key swing states such as Pennsylvania. “What they’ve done is taken somebody that has nothing to do with the party, nothing to do with us, said something, and they’re trying to make a big deal,” Trump stated. “But I don’t know who it is, I don’t even know who put him in.

And I can’t imagine it’s a big deal.” Trump attempted to downplay the incident, indicating that the comedian’s comments were not representative of his campaign or the Republican Party. The joke in question sparked swift criticism, with opponents highlighting its insensitivity toward Puerto Rican communities, reported Axios.

As Trump aims to bolster his support in critical swing states with sizable Puerto Rican populations, his campaign found itself in an uncomfortable spotlight. While Trump disclaimed responsibility, reports emerged suggesting that the campaign had reviewed Hinchcliffe’s material before his set, blocking a separate joke that included a sexist slur about Vice President Kamala Harris. This raised questions about the vetting process, with critics arguing that leaving in the Puerto Rico joke appeared selective.

Responding to the backlash, the Trump campaign denied any foreknowledge of the offending joke, clarifying that Hinchcliffe was not directly affiliated with the campaign and was included for comedic entertainment. Nonetheless, political analysts noted that the backlash surrounding Hinchcliffe’s joke underscores the complexities of rally atmospheres, where guest speakers’ remarks can quickly reflect back on a candidate.

The timing of the incident couldn’t be more sensitive, as the race enters its final week with early voting already underway. With both Trump and his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, making their closing arguments to voters, every move—and every word—has heightened importance. Harris has continued her efforts to appeal to Latino voters, emphasizing an inclusive message, while the Trump campaign is attempting to shore up its support across various demographics, including Puerto Rican Americans in swing states.

The episode has added yet another dimension to the already tense electoral climate. Trump’s comments to Hannity, denying any direct association with Hinchcliffe and attempting to downplay the significance of the joke, illustrate his campaign’s cautious approach to damage control in the final week. However, with the Puerto Rico remarks drawing widespread condemnation, the situation has intensified scrutiny on Trump’s campaign messaging, especially as it pertains to outreach toward Hispanic voters.

As Election Day approaches, both campaigns are using every opportunity to engage and energize their bases, underscoring the stakes involved in key states. Whether or not Trump’s distancing from Hinchcliffe will mitigate the backlash remains uncertain, but it highlights the high-wire act campaigns face in managing public perception as they deliver their final pitches to voters.