Former President Donald Trump made a surprise visit to a New York Fire Department station on May 2, following his court attendance for the so-called hush money charges brought against him.
The FDNY has received visits from multiple political leaders from both sides of the political spectrum over the years. The department issued a statement to reaffirm that the department appreciates support from political figures without prejudice.
“We appreciate whoever supports our members at the FDNY, no matter their political affiliation,” the fire department said in the statement.
Two weeks previously, the former president visited a Harlem bodega after his second day in court, where he met with workers to address the rising crime problem in the city.
Before President Trump’s arrival, large crowds had gathered outside of the Harlem market to greet and cheer for the former president as he passed.
Court Appearance
President Trump’s Manhattan courthouse attendance consisted of witness testimony and cross-examination on the criminal charges against him, which had been brought forward by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
The charges relate to allegations of “hush money” paid to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, and associated allegations of subsequently falsifying business records.
In addition to the “hush money” testimony, arguments were also presented to the court on Thursday relating to alleged violations of a gag order laid against the presumptive 2024 GOP presidential nominee by Justice Juan Merchan.
President Trump has denied all charges against him. The former president has repeatedly stated that the criminal charges are a politically motivated ploy, orchestrated by the Biden administration to prevent him from fundraising or from pursuing his presidential campaign.
He has also noted on multiple occasions that the allegations against him will backfire, as he says his supporters are aware that the charges are unfair.
“We’re doing better now than we’ve ever done, so I think it’s having a reverse effect,” President Trump said during his stop at the bodega last month.
The former president said he is taking advantage of being forced to attend each day of the trial, as it “makes him campaign locally, and that’s okay.”
“We’re making a big play for New York, other cities, too. But this city, I love this city,” he said.
