Eleven Trump rally attendees were hospitalized due to extreme heat in Arizona. As temperatures rise, millions across the U.S., including Phoenix, are under heat warnings.
BBC Reported that the rally, held outside the Dream City Church, drew thousands, some of whom suffered from heat-related health issues. On the day, temperatures soared to an oppressive 111F (44C), necessitating medical attention for multiple attendees.
This rally was notably Trump's first appearance after a conviction in New York related to falsifying business records concerning a payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
The former president vehemently attacked his conviction during the event. He expressed his sentiment that he was the victim of a political witch hunt, orchestrated and unjust.
Donald Trump critiqued the circumstances surrounding his conviction, emphasizing his belief in the process's unfairness. He described the challenge facing him, “I just went through a rigged trial in New York. It was made-up, fabricated stuff."
Alongside critiquing his trial, Trump used the platform to outline his political agenda. He took a firm stance against what he termed detrimental policies implemented by the current administration and promised swift reversals if granted a second term.
That day's temperature conditions were part of a wider climatic extremity hitting large parts of the Southwest. Cities across California, Nevada, and Arizona were battered by near-historic highs, with forecasts predicting up to 121F (49C) in some areas.
Phoenix was under an excessive heat warning, prompting advisories for residents to minimize outdoor activities and stay hydrated. Despite this, the turnout at Trump’s rally was significant, showing his lingering influence and the fervor of his supporters, many of whom withstood the heat to hear him speak.
The heat at the rally was symptomatic of larger patterns attributed to climate change, which is causing more frequent and severe weather events worldwide.
Trump's campaign did not pause following the Phoenix rally. He headed next to San to conduct a fundraiser, continuing his efforts to catalyze support for his presidential run.
At the rally, Trump touched on various policy areas, committing particularly to immigration issues. He criticized President Joe Biden's executive order related to immigration, pledging, "On day one of my administration, I will be rescuing Crooked Joe's outrageous executive order," which he labeled as "pro-invasion."
Adding to the political discourse, Trump teased the audience about his vice-presidential choice, mentioning it would be unveiled at the next month’s Republican National Convention: "We have some very good to consider."
Looking ahead, Trump’s next campaign event was scheduled to unfold in Las Vegas, where plans were reportedly in place to better manage the desert heat.
