Former U.S. President Donald Trump stirred up a considerable reaction on social media following comments he made at a rally held at the Georgia State University Convocation Center in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 3, 2024. Trump humorously suggested that he might not go home to his wife, Melania Trump, after receiving a kiss from Georgia activist Michaelah Montgomery.
Addressing a spirited crowd, Trump described his first encounter with Montgomery at a Chick-fil-A restaurant in April. He recounted how Montgomery recognized him and expressed gratitude for supporting her university education. Trump humorously described receiving a hug and a kiss from her, causing him to jokingly think about not returning home to Melania Trump.
In response to Trump’s anecdote, Montgomery lightheartedly stated that the encounter was supposed to be a secret. Despite the jovial context, Trump’s comment elicited a range of reactions on social media. Several users of platform X deemed Trump’s remark disrespectful towards Melania Trump. A user sarcastically suggested that Melania would be pleased, while others questioned the authenticity of the encounter.
Montgomery, a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and a vocal supporter of Trump’s policies, used the rally to defend Trump against criticism surrounding his comments on Vice President Kamala Harris’s racial identity. She endorsed Trump’s contentious stance, suggesting that Harris identifies as Black only when it is politically expedient. Her statements addressed Trump’s previous assertion that Harris had “happened to turn Black” recently, a comment that had already garnered substantial criticism.
Despite the controversy, Trump lauded Montgomery at the rally, commending her as “incredible” and forecasting a “tremendous future” for her. He pledged to support her future endeavors.
The rally highlighted Trump’s enduring appeal among his followers as he discussed a range of topics, including his vision for the nation’s future. He underscored his commitment to issues affecting Black Americans, a demographic he claims to have substantially benefitted during his presidency. Trump claimed, “I am the best president for Black Americans,” underscoring his contributions to their communities.
Political ally and vice presidential nominee JD Vance also addressed the audience, reinforcing Trump’s controversial comments about Harris. Vance criticized Harris’ accent, describing it as “weird for her to sound like a Southern belle even though she grew up in Vancouver,” as part of a broader critique of the Democratic Party.
Melania Trump’s absence from the rally and Trump’s campaign events has fueled speculation. Some reports suggest an arrangement between her and Trump where she would not need to participate in continuous First Lady duties should he return to the White House, though this has not been officially confirmed.