Former President Donald Trump made headlines once again with his inflammatory remarks comparing the Biden administration to the Nazi secret police during a speech to Republican donors in Florida. In a rambling hour-and-a-half address, Trump complained about the indictments against him and baselessly alleged they were part of a coordinated plot by the Biden administration.
Calling the current administration a “Gestapo administration,” Trump’s comments drew swift backlash and criticism. North Dakota governor Doug Burgum, who was in attendance and is considered a potential vice-presidential pick for Trump, later defended the comparison, stating that many Americans share the sentiment that Trump is being unfairly treated.
Trump’s speech was filled with insults towards his perceived enemies and boasts about his own standing. He particularly targeted special counsel Jack Smith, calling him derogatory names. On a more positive note, Trump praised potential vice-presidential picks like Representative Elise Stefanik and Governor Burgum.
In a bizarre moment, Trump offered anyone who donated $1 million to the GOP the chance to speak onstage. Two donors took him up on the offer, with one proclaiming, “Donald J Trump is the person that God has chosen.”
While Trump appeared unguarded at the RNC event, he continues to face legal scrutiny. Former aide Hope Hicks recently testified in his criminal hush trial in Manhattan, providing emotional testimony about Trump allies’ reactions to scandals involving the release of the 2016 “Access Hollywood” tape and allegations of an affair with Stormy Daniels. Trump’s controversial remarks and ongoing legal battles continue to keep him in the spotlight.