In a fiery speech delivered at the New York Young Republican Club's annual gala, former President Donald Trump reiterated his infamous "dictator" comment and made reference to the Access Hollywood tape that caused a major controversy during his 2016 campaign. Speaking to a crowd of fervent conservative supporters, Trump praised his allies on the far right and defended his actions in the face of numerous legal battles.

Trump's speech on Saturday night delved into his political journey, highlighting his ability to win the 2016 election despite the damaging release of the Access Hollywood tape. The video, which captured Trump making lewd and vulgar remarks about women, triggered widespread condemnation and calls for him to withdraw from the race.

Referring to the tape as the "biggest inescapable" situation he faced in politics, Trump rhetorically asked, "Grab them by the p----. You can do anything." He later dismissed the crude comments as mere "locker room talk," a defense that drew criticism from prominent Republicans who demanded his withdrawal from the race.

Trump recounted how all of his advisers, except Steve Bannon, pushed him to drop out after the tape resurfaced. He claimed that an unnamed general told him that his "locker room talk" explanation was the "bravest thing" he had ever witnessed, even in comparison to witnessing people die on the battlefield. Trump reveled in the fact that he defied expectations and emerged victorious in the 2016 election.

The resurrection of the Access Hollywood tape, which had faded from headlines in recent years, showcases Trump's ability to brush aside scandals while maintaining popularity among his Republican base. Despite facing numerous legal battles, including four sets of criminal charges, Trump continues to deny all wrongdoing and has pleaded not guilty.

During his speech, Trump accused his opponents of attempting to hinder his political rise and pledged to take back the nation from what he described as a "shadow government of corrupt alliances." He emphasized a theme of retribution and retaliation, issuing what seemed like a threat to President Joe Biden. Trump vowed to appoint a special prosecutor to pursue Biden and his family, whom he blamed for the nation's supposed decline.

Amidst the laughter and applause of the friendly crowd, Trump revisited his recent comments during a town hall with Fox News' Sean Hannity. He joked about not being a dictator if reelected, except on "Day 1," when he promised to focus on building a border wall and drilling. Addressing chants of "build the wall," Trump expressed his desire for a wall and emphasized his commitment to drilling for energy.

The gala event also honored figures such as Steve Bannon, who had a tumultuous relationship with Trump and was sentenced last year for contempt of Congress. Other guests included Rudy Giuliani, who is facing charges alongside Trump in a Georgia election subversion indictment, and Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar, who had previously faced censure and removal from committees for posting a violent anime clip featuring Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

The event took a controversial turn when host Alex Stein stereotyped the Black and Hispanic communities as criminals and gang members, suggesting that Trump going to jail would earn him support from these communities. Stein repeated the joke later in the evening in the presence of Trump.

As Trump continues to campaign for the White House for a third time, his unapologetic stance against scandals and legal battles remains a dominant characteristic. While his rhetoric resonates with his conservative base, his comments and actions continue to draw scrutiny and controversy from a wide range of opponents.