Stephen Colbert’s Sick Obsession with Madison Square Garden

Colbert ignored the rich political history of Madison Square Garden, which proves that Trump chose the location for its overall historical significance, rather than making a political statement.

Late-night comedian Stephen Colbert, who used to be funny, says that President Donald Trump’s mega rally at Madison Square Garden is part of some strange obsession because in 1939, the German American Bund held a rally there opposing U.S. involvement in World War II.

This claim has been parroted by Hillary Clinton and other left-wing wack-jobs.

But Colbert and others on the left ignore the rich political history of Madison Square Garden, which proves that Trump chose the location for its overall historical significance, rather than making a political statement.

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The Importance of Madison Square Garden in U.S. Political History

Madison Square Garden (MSG) has played a pivotal role in U.S. political history, serving as a venue for national conventions, presidential campaign rallies, and landmark speeches.

The 'Klanbake' (1924)

The 1924 Democratic National Convention held at MSG, known as the 'Klanbake,' was one of the most divisive conventions in U.S. history. Amid contentious debates over prohibition and immigration, deep divides within the party surfaced, taking a staggering 103 ballots to nominate John W. Davis. This convention exposed serious fault lines within the Democratic Party, setting the stage for future policy and identity struggles within the party.

FDR's 'New Deal' Inception (1932)

In 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt accepted the Democratic nomination at MSG, introducing his New Deal vision, which reshaped U.S. economic policy in the Great Depression. This address was much more than a campaign speech—it marked the beginning of a transformative approach to federal government intervention in the economy. By promising bold government action, FDR’s speech laid the foundation for some of the most influential policies in American history.

FDR’s Rally Against 'Economic Royalists' (1936)

Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a memorable speech at MSG in 1936, railing against ‘economic royalists’ and reinforcing his New Deal policies. Labeling opponents of his policies as elite powers who opposed the welfare of common Americans, FDR’s speech positioned him as a champion of the working class. This rally helped him win overwhelming support in his re-election, making this one of MSG’s defining political moments.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Third Inauguration Anniversary Speech (1941)

Before the U.S. entered World War II, Roosevelt delivered a speech rallying support for the Allies, highlighting America as the 'arsenal of democracy.'

JFK’s Charismatic Campaign Rally (1960)

John F. Kennedy’s campaign rally at MSG in 1960 marked a turning point in American politics. Kennedy’s charisma, youthful appeal, and forward-thinking vision made waves, helping him gain momentum against Richard Nixon. This rally wasn’t just about the election; it represented a generational shift, signaling the rise of a new era in leadership.

John F. Kennedy’s Birthday Gala (1962)

The 1962 Birthday Gala for JFK, featuring Marilyn Monroe’s iconic “Happy Birthday, Mr. President,” highlighted Kennedy’s popularity and public appeal. Though not a traditional political event, the gala symbolized Kennedy’s charisma and star power, adding to his image as a dynamic and influential leader.

Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society Speech (1964)

LBJ used MSG as a stage to present his Great Society reforms in 1964, outlining a vision for civil rights, poverty alleviation, and education reform. This ambitious program became one of the most transformative agendas in U.S. policy, shaping the nation’s approach to social welfare and equality.

Richard Nixon Campaign Rally (1968)

During his comeback campaign, Nixon held a pivotal rally, promoting his 'law and order' message that resonated amid the era’s social tensions.

Eugene McCarthy Campaign Rally (1968)

This rally was a landmark for the anti-Vietnam War movement, with McCarthy’s stance gaining strong support and prompting Lyndon B. Johnson’s decision not to seek re-election.

Nixon’s 'Silent Majority' Appeal (1969)

Richard Nixon’s gathering at MSG in 1969 introduced the concept of the ‘silent majority,’ giving voice to Americans who felt overlooked amidst the social upheaval of the 1960s. The term became a key part of Nixon’s political identity, resonating with voters who supported traditional values and law and order.

Women’s Rights and Political Influence (1970)

In 1970, the Women’s Strike for Equality Rally at MSG marked the 50th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, advocating for women's rights and equality. This rally was a turning point in the fight for gender equality, influencing future policies and the national conversation around the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA).

The Rise of Jimmy Carter (1976)

In 1976, Jimmy Carter’s nomination at MSG introduced a fresh face to the Democratic Party in a post-Watergate America. Carter’s message of unity, morality, and reform resonated with a nation weary from political scandal, ultimately propelling him to victory against Gerald Ford. This event marked the start of Carter’s transformative journey, where he pledged to restore faith in the office of the presidency.

Jimmy Carter’s Energy Policy Address (1979)

Amidst an energy crisis, Carter spoke about reducing dependence on foreign oil, aligning with his focus on economic and energy challenges.

Ronald Reagan’s 1984 Campaign Rally

During his 1984 re-election campaign, Ronald Reagan returned to MSG to promote his “Morning in America” theme, rallying support from the public and helping secure a landslide victory. Reagan’s message resonated widely, celebrating the achievements of his first term and reinforcing his vision for America’s future.

George H.W. Bush Campaign Rally (1988)

Bush held a rally during his presidential campaign, reinforcing conservative policies and uniting his base ahead of his victory over Michael Dukakis.

Bill Clinton’s 'New Democrat' Message (1992)

Bill Clinton’s 1992 nomination at MSG represented the ‘New Democrat’ movement, a strategy to reshape and broaden the Democratic Party’s appeal. This shift in messaging helped Clinton win over both traditional and swing voters, leading to his victory over incumbent George H.W. Bush. By blending conservative fiscal ideas with social liberalism, Clinton’s platform redefined the Democratic approach for years to come.

The Only Republican Convention at MSG (2004)

In a unique moment, the 2004 Republican National Convention was held at MSG, where President George W. Bush accepted his second-term nomination. The event took place against the backdrop of the Iraq War and intense security concerns post-9/11. The 2004 convention served as a political flashpoint in a city deeply affected by the events of 9/11, showcasing the themes of patriotism and security that dominated Bush’s campaign.

Obama’s 2007 Fundraiser

Barack Obama’s 2007 fundraiser at MSG attracted widespread support during his first presidential campaign. His message of hope and change resonated with a broad audience, helping him gain momentum in a competitive Democratic field and setting the tone for his historic candidacy.

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Platform for Key Conservative Movements

In 1975, Ronald Reagan addressed the National Conservative Political Action Conference at MSG, uniting conservative ideals and building momentum for his 1980 campaign.

Reagan’s speech reinforced the Garden’s role as a political arena, supporting the development of a conservative vision that remains influential today.

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Iconic Venue for National Conventions

Madison Square Garden (MSG) has been the site of several historic conventions, hosting both Democratic and Republican national events. Notably, the 1924, 1976, 1980, 1992, and 2004 conventions all took place here, each shaping the political narratives and election outcomes of their time. These conventions weren’t just about nominating candidates; they showcased evolving party platforms and strategies, giving voters a glimpse into the ideas shaping America’s future.

Democratic National Convention (1924)

Known as the 'Klanbake,' this convention was one of the most divisive in U.S. history, taking 103 ballots over 16 days to nominate John W. Davis amidst sharp divisions over issues like immigration and prohibition.

Democratic National Convention (1932)

Franklin D. Roosevelt accepted his first nomination here and introduced his 'New Deal' platform, a historic pivot in American political and economic policy.

Democratic National Convention (1976)

Jimmy Carter's nomination as the Democratic candidate took place here, setting him up for victory against Gerald Ford and emphasizing unity in a post-Watergate America.

Democratic National Convention (1980)

This convention highlighted a divided Democratic Party as incumbent Jimmy Carter faced opposition from Senator Ted Kennedy. Carter secured the nomination but ultimately lost to Ronald Reagan.

Democratic National Convention (1992)

Bill Clinton's nomination at this convention marked the rise of the 'New Democrat' approach, which broadened the Democratic Party's appeal and led him to victory over George H.W. Bush.

Republican National Convention (2004)

Madison Square Garden hosted this unusual Republican National Convention, where President George W. Bush was re-nominated for a second term amid heightened security and anti-war protests in the post-9/11 era.

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