Puerto Rican community in Georgia outraged by racist joke at Trump rally

Atlanta – A comedian who called Puerto Rico trash before a crowded Donald Trump rally in New York could have a major impact on the presidential election in Georgia. Puerto Ricans cannot vote in general elections despite being U.S. citizens, but they can exert a powerful influence. convincing relatives on the mainland.

Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe and the Trump campaign continue to face backlash for his racist jokes about Puerto Rico and minorities during an event at Madison Square Garden.

Members of Georgia’s Puerto Rican and Latino communities expressed their outrage at a press conference in Norcross on Tuesday.

“Words matter, especially if someone is going to become a leader of this nation,” said community leader Grace Williams.

The Trump campaign attempted to distance itself from the comedian, saying Hinchcliffe’s joke about Puerto Rico did not reflect the views of President Trump or the campaign.

Just a week before Election Day, speakers said vulgar language could hurt Trump in key battleground states.

“One hundred thousand Puerto Ricans live in the metro area, and we vote,” Williams said.

Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris is competing with Trump to win over Puerto Rican communities in swing states. Shortly after, stand-up comedian Tony Hinchcliffe said: “I don’t know if you know this, but there’s literally a floating island of rubbish in the middle of the ocean right now. I think it’s called Puerto Rico,” said several Puerto Ricans. Rican celebrities, including reggaeton superstar Bad Bunny, said they support Harris.

Hinchcliffe’s set also included lewd and racist comments about Latinos, Jews and blacks, who are key constituencies in the election.