In a rally on Saturday in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, former President Donald Trump escalated his contentious rhetoric by calling Vice President Kamala Harris “mentally impaired” and alleging that illegal immigrants pose a violent threat to American households. His comments come in response to Harris’s recent visit to the US-Mexico border, where she pledged to strengthen control over asylum claims and undocumented migrant crossings.
As the November 5 election approaches, immigration remains one of Harris’s weakest issues in polling, with Trump and Harris virtually neck-and-neck in the race. During his speech, Trump dismissed Harris’s border remarks, asserting that both she and President Joe Biden are responsible for an “invasion” of violent criminals.
Trump’s anti-immigrant sentiments have been a cornerstone of his appeal in economically challenged, predominantly white regions since his 2016 campaign. However, his language has become increasingly extreme as Election Day draws near. The 78-year-old businessman, who is also a convicted felon facing multiple court cases, criticized Harris’s intelligence, claiming, “Joe Biden became mentally impaired. Kamala was born that way.”
In contrast, Harris attended a fundraiser in San Francisco on Saturday, where she characterized Trump’s approach as relying on “the same tired playbook we’ve heard for years.” She emphasized that the election represents two very different visions for the country.
At the Wisconsin rally, Trump presented a grim portrayal of America, flanked by large mugshots of migrants accused of crimes. He claimed that illegal immigrants would invade homes and threaten safety, stating, “They will walk into your kitchen, they’ll cut your throat,” and accused them of various violent acts.
Trump referred to undocumented migrants as “animals” and claimed they would take jobs from minorities and union workers. Frustrated by Harris’s recent border messaging, he labeled her a “liar” and expressed discontent that Fox News aired her speech, suggesting it should not have been broadcast.
Acknowledging the stark nature of his address, Trump remarked, “Isn’t this a wonderful and inspiring speech? I’ve got people sitting in the front row — they’re going ‘oh my God.’” He concluded with a reflection on the tone of his speech, describing it as “dark.”
Key Points
- Trump’s Rhetoric Against Harris: Donald Trump labeled Vice President Kamala Harris “mentally impaired” and accused illegal immigrants of posing a violent threat during a rally in Wisconsin.
- Response to Harris’s Border Visit: Trump’s remarks were made in response to Harris’s visit to the US-Mexico border, where she vowed to enhance control over asylum claims and migrant crossings.
- Polling Context: Immigration is a weak point for Harris in polling, as she competes closely with Trump in the upcoming November 5 election.
- Escalating Anti-Immigrant Sentiment: Trump’s rhetoric has grown more extreme, framing illegal immigration as an “invasion” and alleging that immigrants will commit violent acts against Americans.
- Contrasting Campaign Messages: Harris criticized Trump for using outdated tactics, highlighting that the election represents two different visions for America.
- Trump’s Provocative Language: Trump made alarming statements about illegal immigrants, claiming they would invade homes and threatening public safety.
- Media Criticism: Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Fox News for airing Harris’s speech, calling her a “liar” and suggesting her message should not have been broadcast.
- Self-Reflection on Speech Tone: Trump acknowledged the dark tone of his speech, noting the surprised reactions from attendees.
