NFL legend Lawrence Taylor, considered the greatest defensive player of all time, made a surprise appearance at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, and declared his support for the former president.
Legendary New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor made a sensational appearance at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, on Saturday, stunning the crowd with his declaration of support for the former president.
Taylor, widely regarded as the greatest linebacker to ever play the game, addressed the enthusiastic crowd, declaring that he had always been a Democrat but was now firmly behind Trump.
"I grew up a Democrat, and I've always been a Democrat, until I met this man right here," Taylor said, to thunderous cheers. "Nobody in my family ever will vote for a Democrat again."
The NFL icon's announcement sent shockwaves through the audience, as attendees expressed surprise and delight. Assemblyman Paul Kanitra from New Jersey's 10th legislative district, who spotted Taylor at the rally, exclaimed that he had grown up idolizing the legendary player.
Taylor's endorsement of Trump is a significant coup for the former president, who is seeking to regain the White House in 2024. Many attendees at the rally expressed belief that Trump could flip the Garden State in November's election.
"I think this country needs to change. Although, we already know what Trump's all about. So, that change is just going to come right back to us because that's what we need," said one supporter, identified as Carlos. "We need Trump because I don't think Biden is just getting the job done right now."
Taylor's support for Trump is particularly noteworthy given his past statements about the former president. In 2016, Taylor criticized Trump's comments about Mexican immigrants, calling them "racist" and "hateful."
However, it appears that Taylor has had a change of heart towards Trump, a sentiment shared by many attendees at the rally.
"I think Donald Trump was an amazing president. He brought the country back to a place of prosperity and strength," said Anna, a New Jersey schoolteacher who attended the rally.
Trump himself expressed gratitude for Taylor's endorsement, saying that he was "honored" to have the support of the legendary football player.
Taylor's appearance at the rally is yet another example of the former president's enduring popularity among his base. With his unwavering support for Trump, Taylor has sent a powerful message that even longtime Democrats are willing to reconsider their political allegiances in favor of the Republican candidate.
