On May 11, 2024, Donald Trump made unusual comments during a campaign rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, where he spoke to an audience of approximately 80,000 people. In his speech, Trump referred to the fictional character Hannibal Lecter, a notorious cannibal from the movie "Silence of the Lambs," as "the late, great" and "a wonderful man." He made these remarks while discussing a scene from the film before abruptly changing topics to discuss illegal immigration and other political issues.
The rally also included attacks against President Joe Biden, whom Trump called a "total moron," and vigorous complaints about his ongoing New York hush-money trial, which he labeled a "Biden show trial" and "bulls***." Trump criticized the trial's presiding judge, Juan Merchan, and Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg, whom he disparagingly nicknamed "Fat Alvin, corrupt guy."
In addition, Trump attacked former lawyer Michael Cohen, who testified against him, and made controversial remarks comparing himself to gangster Al Capone and expressing disdain for vaccine mandates in schools. The rally also saw Trump confusing former President Jimmy Carter with retired tennis star Jimmy Connors in his comments.