Trump Shares Video of Biden Bound in Pickup Truck, Campaign Spokesperson Defends Image

Controversial Social Media Post Sparks Outrage

On Friday, a video shared by former President Donald Trump on social media has caused widespread controversy and outcry. The video includes an image of President Joe Biden bound and restrained in the back of a pickup truck, alongside the words "Trump 2024."

Video Details and Response

The 20-second video was reportedly taken on Thursday in Long Island, New York, during Trump's visit for the wake of fallen NYPD officer Jonathan Diller. The truck displayed a large picture of Biden tied up and lying on his side, with the "Trump 2024" slogan.

When asked for a comment on the video, Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung explained that the image was on the back of a pickup truck traveling on the highway. Cheung also accused "Democrats and crazed lunatics" of endorsing violence against Trump and his family, alleging that they are using the justice system as a weapon against him.

Reactions and Accusations

Biden campaign spokesman Michael Tyler condemned Trump's actions, stating that the image is reminiscent of a call for violence, making reference to previous controversial statements made by Trump. He pointed to Trump's use of violent imagery and rhetoric, implying that it contributes to inciting political violence.

Additionally, White House officials deferred questions about the video to the campaign, distancing themselves from the contentious content.

History of Violent Imagery and Rhetoric

Trump's use of violent language and images in his 2024 presidential campaign and prior to it has drawn criticism. In March, he made a statement suggesting a "bloodbath" would occur if he was not re-elected, and he has also used similar language in the context of potential legal actions against him. Moreover, Trump has shared controversial content on his Truth Social platform, including an image with a baseball bat near a district attorney's head, which was subsequently removed.

Recently, Trump targeted Judge Juan Merchan and the judge's daughter on Truth Social after being subjected to a partial gag order, further stoking tensions amidst his ongoing legal battles. Trump is facing four criminal indictments related to allegations of election interference, mishandling classified documents, and falsifying business records linked to hush money payments, maintaining his not guilty plea in all cases.