In a fervent display of support for Vice President Kamala Harris, Jennifer Lopez took centre stage at a rally in Las Vegas, where she delivered a compelling critique of former President Donald Trump. The rally came in response to a controversial remark made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who referred to Puerto Rico as “a floating island of garbage” during a Trump event at Madison Square Garden. The remark sparked widespread backlash, prompting Lopez to advocate for the Puerto Rican community and Latinos across the nation.
Jennifer Lopez and Purto Rican controversy
Lopez, an outspoken advocate for unity and respect, addressed the audience with a powerful message, stating, “It wasn’t just Puerto Ricans that were offended that day. It was every Latino in this country. It was humanity and anyone of decent character.” Her passionate 15-minute speech underscored the importance of character and inclusivity in leadership, as she rallied support for Harris in the upcoming election.
As a proud Puerto Rican and American, Lopez articulated her identity, declaring, “I am Puerto Rican, and yes, I was born here, and we are Americans. I am a mother. I am a sister. I am an actor and an entertainer.” She expressed her desire for positive outcomes, stating, “I like Hollywood endings. I like when the good guy — and in this case, the good girl — wins.” In a light-hearted yet poignant moment, Lopez remarked, “You can’t spell American without Rican,” emphasizing the integral role of Puerto Ricans in the fabric of American society.
During her speech, Lopez praised Harris’s policies, particularly the efforts to extend the child tax credit, highlighting that such initiatives aim to uplift all Americans, regardless of their background. “It’s about helping you get ahead. It’s about us. All of us. No matter what we look like, who we love, who we worship, or where we’re from,” she asserted.
Trump’s divisive politics
As the crowd erupted in cheers, Lopez criticised Trump for his divisive rhetoric, asserting that his approach has consistently sought to separate people rather than unite them. With the November 5 election approaching and polls indicating a tight race between Harris and Trump, Lopez’s endorsement carries considerable significance, particularly in the context of Puerto Rico, a US territory with a population that constitutes about 1.78 per cent of the total US demographic.
Lopez’s passionate call for unity and support for Kamala Harris not only resonated with the audience but also highlighted the critical role that voices from the Latino community play in shaping the future of American politics.