Tensions were palpable outside the Manhattan Supreme Court on Tuesday, as protesters for and against former President Donald Trump gathered amid his historic arraignment. Amid the chaos, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's speech at a nearby park was drowned out by whistles and jeers.
The controversial congresswoman from Georgia had invited Trump supporters to join her for a rally at Collect Pond Park, close to the courthouse. Despite her short appearance, lasting only ten minutes, Greene declared to the mixed crowd of supporters and counter-protesters, "We are the party of male and female! We are the party of secured borders!" Opponents responded with shouts, urging her to leave the city.
Outside the courthouse, opposing groups of protesters clashed verbally and physically, prompting NYPD officers to intervene and attempt to keep the two sides separate. Maverick Stow, a 19-year-old real estate agent from Long Island, criticized the police for discouraging protesters from approaching the courthouse area, questioning why the public was being barred from the sidewalk.
In response to the charges against him, Trump has called the case a "witch hunt" and encouraged his supporters to take to the streets in his defense. Supporters like Pauline Braccio, 66, from Lansdale, Pennsylvania, continue to believe in him, stating, "I think Bragg is an ass," referring to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who convened a grand jury to consider an indictment against Trump.
New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams was also present outside the courthouse, expressing his desire to "stand with the folks who are always pushing for a better America." Regarding Rep. Greene, Williams remarked, "I understand why she wants to be here, but I will be happy when she leaves as soon as possible."
Mayor Eric Adams had issued a warning to Greene on Monday, urging her to "be on your best behavior" and to "control yourself." Trump is set to make an appearance in court for his arraignment, after which he will return to his Mar-a-Lago home in Florida to deliver a speech.
