Trump Warns Detroit Could Be America’s Future, Sparks Outrage in Speech
REUTERS/Alyssa Pointer
During a speech at the Detroit Economic Club, former President Donald Trump stirred controversy by criticizing the city he was visiting, warning that if he loses to Vice President Kamala Harris, the rest of America could end up like Detroit. “I don’t think anything that we’re talking about today is high on her list,” he stated. “The whole country is going to be like — you want to know the truth? It’ll be like Detroit.”
Trump’s remarks targeted the second-largest Midwestern city and one of the largest metropolitan areas in a crucial swing state, sparking immediate backlash. Critics on social media and political figures expressed their astonishment and outrage, likening Trump’s comments to his previous attacks on Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Just days before the GOP hosted its presidential convention there, Trump had called Milwaukee a “horrible city.”
Among the voices condemning Trump was Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), who represents Detroit in Congress. “Detroit is a city with a booming economy, diverse culture, and some of the best people in America. Donald Trump: keep Detroit and our people out of your mouth. We will elect Kamala Harris,” Thanedar stated defiantly.
Other commentators echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the poor political strategy of insulting a swing state. Writer Thor Benson sarcastically remarked, “Always smart to insult an important swing state.” Meanwhile, transit activist Hayden Clarkin tweeted, “Imagine standing in Detroit and saying ‘vote for me so you don’t end up like this place’ lmao.”
The criticism didn’t end there. Michigan State Senate Majority Whip Mallory McMorrow expressed her outrage, writing, “As a proud elected representative of tens of thousands of Detroiters: F–k this guy. Don’t come back.” Her response highlighted the deep offense felt by local leaders and residents alike.
National security attorney Bradley Moss also chimed in, questioning Trump’s motives with a sarcastic comment: “Mmm, I wonder what it is about Detroit he doesn’t like …” Moss accompanied his tweet with screenshots of articles celebrating Detroit’s recent economic recovery and development boom, illustrating the city’s progress in recent years.
Opinion columnist Rex Huppke offered a biting summary of Trump’s speech: “‘Thanks for inviting me to your craphole city, I’m gonna use it as an example of what a failing nation would look like TO YOUR FACES. Anyhoo, vote for me, losers,’” he wrote, mocking the former president’s approach.
Trump’s speech has once again ignited debates over his rhetoric and its impact on crucial swing states like Michigan. As the 2024 election approaches, his comments in Detroit may have far-reaching consequences, shaping public perception and influencing voter sentiment in this pivotal region.
