Trump Rallies Supporters in Battleground Pennsylvania Ahead of First Debate

Former President Donald Trump held a rally in Philadelphia on Saturday, just days before his first debate with President Joe Biden. Trump's campaign said he would focus on how Biden's "weak presidency" is hurting American families.

Former President Donald Trump rallied supporters in the battleground state of Pennsylvania on Saturday, just days ahead of his first debate with President Joe Biden. The event, held at Temple University's Liacouras Center in North Philadelphia, drew a large crowd of supporters waving American flags and sporting Trump gear.

Trump's visit to Philadelphia comes as part of a series of rallies in deeply Democratic areas, including the Bronx, the Jersey Shore, and Detroit. Winning Pennsylvania, a swing state that Trump narrowly won in 2016 but lost to Biden in 2020, is crucial for both candidates in the upcoming election.

Trump Rallies Supporters in Battleground Pennsylvania Ahead of First Debate

Trump's campaign stated that the rally would focus on highlighting how Biden's "weak presidency is devastating American families." They argued that Pennsylvanians are feeling the effects of Biden's failed policies, particularly on their finances.

According to the Trump campaign, "Pennsylvanians are feeling the effects of Biden’s failed policies where it hurts the most – their wallets. Life is excruciatingly expensive under Joe Biden, with prices spiking more than 17% since Biden took office. Run-away inflation caused by Bidenomics is costing the average family in Pennsylvania nearly $1,000 per month."

Trump Rallies Supporters in Battleground Pennsylvania Ahead of First Debate

Trump also spoke about immigration, vowing to begin the "largest deportation operation in American history" on his first day in office. This statement drew loud applause from the crowd.

Earlier in the day, Trump addressed conservative and faith voters at the Faith & Freedom Coalition's annual Road to Majority conference in Washington, D.C. He pledged to protect religious freedom and condemned the government's "crackdowns" on gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trump Rallies Supporters in Battleground Pennsylvania Ahead of First Debate

Before arriving at the Philadelphia rally, Trump visited Tony and Nick's Steaks, a local sandwich shop. He greeted customers and employees and left a $500 tip on his sandwich. Former New Jersey Senate candidate Mike Crispi reported that Trump reiterated his pledge to end taxes on tips if elected.

The rally in Philadelphia was one of several events that Trump and Biden participated in this weekend ahead of their highly anticipated first debate on Thursday. Both candidates are expected to use the debate as an opportunity to put each other on the defensive.

Trump Rallies Supporters in Battleground Pennsylvania Ahead of First Debate

With the election less than two months away, the rallies and debates will play a significant role in shaping the race for the presidency. Pennsylvania's status as a swing state makes it a particularly important target for both Trump and Biden.