De Niro’s Fiery Speech: Compares Trump to 9/11 at Biden Rally

On May 28, 2024, actor Robert De Niro delivered a controversial speech at a Biden campaign press conference.
The event was held outside the Manhattan courthouse during the closing arguments of Donald Trump's hush money trial.

Background

The press conference was organized by President Joe Biden's campaign.
De Niro was joined by Capitol Police officers Michael Fanone and Harry Dunn, who defended the Capitol during the January 6, 2021, riot.
The Biden campaign spokesman emphasized the contrast between Trump's alleged self-serving behavior and the campaign's focus on protecting American values.

De Niro's Speech

De Niro invoked the 9/11 attacks, comparing Trump's potential return to the White House to the devastation of 9/11.
"The Twin Towers fell just over here, just over there... Donald Trump wants to destroy not only the city, but the country, and eventually he could destroy the world," said De Niro.
De Niro described Trump as an "unhinged, power-hungry, self-centered man."
Warned that if Trump wins, Americans could "kiss these freedoms goodbye."

Reaction from Trump

Trump responded on Truth Social, calling De Niro a "wacko" and accusing him of suffering from "TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME."
Trump supporters heckled De Niro at the courthouse, chanting slogans and waving flags.

Political Implications

De Niro's involvement marked a significant shift in Biden's campaign strategy.
Karl Rove criticized the move, calling it a "stupid mistake" and arguing it was not an effective way to win voters.
The press conference was seen as a politically motivated stunt by some commentators.

Media Coverage

Conservative outlets like Fox News and The Blaze criticized the press conference.
Liberal outlets like CNN and MSNBC highlighted De Niro's defense of democracy.
Independent analysts offered mixed perspectives on the effectiveness of the strategy.

Legal Context of Trump's Trial

Trump faced 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign.
The prosecution argued Trump attempted to influence the election outcome; the defense claimed the case was politically motivated.

De Niro's Role in the Biden Campaign

De Niro had previously voiced an ad for Biden, criticizing Trump's behavior.
His speech at the press conference was characterized by strong language and dramatic comparisons.

Biden Campaign's Defense

Michael Tyler, the campaign's communications director, defended the decision to include De Niro.
Emphasized the need to highlight the stakes of the election and the dangers posed by Trump.

Trump Supporters' Response

Jason Miller, Trump's campaign spokesperson, dismissed the event as a stunt and called De Niro a "washed-up actor."
Pro-Trump demonstrators added to the charged atmosphere, heckling De Niro and the other speakers.

Implications for the 2024 Election

The event underscored the high stakes of the 2024 election.
De Niro's speech aimed to frame the election as a battle for the soul of the nation.
Trump's response focused on dismissing the trial as politically motivated.

Conclusion

Robert De Niro's speech sparked heated reactions and highlighted the deep divisions in American society.
The trial and the 2024 election will continue to shape the political narrative and influence public opinion.