### Comedian's Offensive Remarks Stir Controversy Amid Political Campaigns

Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe has come under scrutiny for making derogatory remarks about Latinos and Puerto Rico during a campaign rally for former President Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden. Hinchcliffe's comments included a vulgar joke about Latinos and a disparaging reference to Puerto Rico, calling it "a floating island of garbage."

These statements echo similar sentiments expressed by Trump last week, who described the U.S. as a "garbage can for the world," intensifying his anti-immigrant rhetoric. Hispanic organizations from both political sides have condemned Hinchcliffe's remarks, labeling them as "derogatory," "offensive," and "disrespectful." The U.S. Latino electorate, comprising around 36.2 million eligible voters, represents about 15% of the total voting population, according to the Pew Research Center.

The League of United Latin American Citizens criticized the Trump campaign's tolerance for such humor, arguing that it highlights a pattern of disregard for Puerto Rico's people and challenges. The Republican National Hispanic Assembly also condemned the comedian’s comments, stating that they fail to capture Puerto Rico's resilience and misrepresent the commitment shown to the island by Trump’s administration.

Frankie Miranda, president and CEO of Hispanic Federation, pointed out that Hinchcliffe was given a platform the same day Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled a plan to address Puerto Rico's issues. He emphasized that many Puerto Ricans, residing in key swing states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Florida, and New York, still view the island as their cultural home and will remember such disrespect at the ballot box.

In reaction to the widespread criticism, Hinchcliffe defended his jokes on social media, insisting they were taken out of context and that he makes fun of everyone. Despite his defense, the Trump campaign distanced itself from Hinchcliffe's remarks, asserting they do not reflect the views of the campaign or the former President. Other prominent GOP figures, including María Elvira Salazar, also denounced the comedian's remarks.

Harris's recently announced "Opportunity Economy" plan for Puerto Rico includes initiatives aimed at modernizing the island’s energy grid, expanding access to clean energy, and building affordable housing. The plan received wide acclaim online from influential Hispanic celebrities, such as Bad Bunny, Jennifer Lopez, and Luis Fonsi.

Trump’s previous handling of Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria in 2017 has faced significant criticism. Alongside infamous incidents, such as tossing paper towels into a crowd of Puerto Ricans at a relief center, reports have indicated severe mismanagement and delays in disaster response efforts. Nevertheless, Trump’s administration did approve nearly $13 billion in federal aid to assist in rebuilding Puerto Rico’s electrical grid and education system in 2020.