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Donald Trump’s Pennsylvania Town Hall Interrupted by Medical Emergencies, Culminates in Musical Affair
OAKS, Pennsylvania (AP) — A town hall event in Oaks, Pennsylvania, hosted by former President Donald Trump turned into an unexpected musical gathering on Monday, after two medical emergencies interrupted proceedings. The event was held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center & Fairgrounds, with South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem moderating the session.
According to reports, the interruptions occurred during the question-and-answer part of the town hall. On both occasions, Trump paused to allow medics to assist those in need. As audience members tended to the medical situations, the room experienced a pause in the session while the former president waited on stage with Governor Noem.
During the first interruption, Trump requested the song “Ave Maria” be played. An instrumental version of the song responded to his request. When the second medical emergency arose, Trump reiterated his desire for “Ave Maria,” specifying Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti‘s version, which was then played.
Governor Noem noted the heat in the venue might have contributed to the medical issues and quipped about potential economic constraints on air conditioning, following a comment by Trump on the venue’s conditions.
After the emergencies were resolved, Trump suggested they finish the evening with music instead of more questions. He remarked on the audience members who experienced medical issues, calling them “patriots,” and expressed affection as well as appreciation for the music.
The soundtrack shifted to the Village People’s “YMCA,” a number traditionally used to signal Trump’s exit from the stage. However, he remained on stage longer, moving to various tracks including Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” Rufus Wainwright’s cover of “Hallelujah,” and Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain.”
Despite some attendees leaving, a number of supporters stayed, engaging with the informal atmosphere Trump fostered — one reminiscent of events held at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Finally, as “Memory” from the musical “Cats” played, Trump left the stage.
Trump’s national press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, shared a photo on the social media platform X with the caption “DJ TRUMP!” Meanwhile, spokesperson Steven Cheung commented on the platform, “something very special is happening in Pennsylvania,” praising Trump’s unique approach to politics.
The event showcased Trump’s distinctive style that merges political discourse with entertainment, attracting both criticism and admiration from supporters and observers alike as the 2024 presidential race intensifies.