Former President Donald J. Trump’s return to the campaign trail was delayed on Saturday night after a rally in Wilmington, N.C. was canceled due to severe weather conditions. Despite the cancellation, Mr. Trump assured supporters that he would reschedule the event as soon as possible.
The cancellation underscored the challenges Mr. Trump faces as he juggles his presidential campaign with an ongoing criminal trial that is expected to last through May. The trial has limited his public appearances, with his only campaign stop being a visit to a bodega in New York City last week.
Saturday’s rally was meant to kick off a series of campaign events in battleground states crucial to his White House aspirations. However, with the trial set to begin on Monday, Mr. Trump’s schedule may continue to be disrupted.
Despite the setback, supporters gathered outside the rally venue, including members of the Proud Boys and individuals advocating for the release of Jan. 6 defendants. Mr. Trump, who is facing criminal indictments related to his election loss, has expressed support for the defendants and hinted at pardoning them.
Critics have pointed to Mr. Trump’s rhetoric as fueling white nationalism and far-right extremism in the country. The presence of these groups at his events has raised concerns, especially as he is currently under a gag order in his trial.
While Mr. Trump expressed disappointment over the rally’s cancellation, he assured supporters that he would reschedule the event in the near future. As attendees dispersed, vendors continued to sell merchandise commemorating the planned rally, indicating continued support for Mr. Trump’s campaign.
Robert Draper contributed reporting.
