**Political Turmoil Ignites Over Racist Remarks and Biden Gaffe Ahead of 2024 Election**

As the 2024 election season reaches its peak, a racist comment at a Trump rally has sparked intense political maneuvering from both major parties. The incident, which took place at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, involved comedian Tony Hinchcliffe making a derogatory joke about Puerto Ricans at an event for former President Donald Trump. This occurrence has become a focal point for Democrats and Republicans as they strive to gain the upper hand in both congressional and presidential races.

In the immediate aftermath, Democratic operatives quickly circulated a list of key U.S. House races where voters of Puerto Rican descent represent significant portions of the electorate. According to a memo obtained by CBS News, more than 10% of registered voters in Pennsylvania's hotly contested 7th District House race have Puerto Rican heritage. Additionally, at least 4% of registered voters have ties to Puerto Rico in three competitive House races in New York, along with other races in Pennsylvania, Florida, and Connecticut.

On Tuesday, Democratic candidate Laura Gillen, running in New York's competitive 4th District, amplified the controversy. During a campaign event, Rep. Nydia Valazquez, a New York Democrat born in Puerto Rico, highlighted the issue. Meanwhile, Rep. Jahanna Hayes of Connecticut took to social media to condemn the offensive remarks, stating, "Every person, not just the Puerto Rican community, should be saddened and upset by the behavior of the Trump rally at MSG."

Simultaneously, Republicans have aimed to capitalize on President Biden's response to the racist joke. On Tuesday, Biden referred to the Trump supporter who made the joke as "garbage." However, Republicans have twisted his words, suggesting Biden labeled all Trump supporters negatively. GOP operatives, including Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina and Rep. Marc Molinaro of New York, have demanded that Democratic congressional candidates speak out against Biden's comment, framing their silence as implicit agreement.

These two controversies are fueling the final days of campaigning, influencing the narratives and strategies of both parties as they vie for control of the Senate and House. With highly competitive races at stake, the fallout from these events will likely reverberate through Election Day.