Tony Hinchcliffe Faces Backlash Over Puerto Rico Joke at Trump Rally

Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe is stirring up controversy after his recent performance at Donald Trump's rally at Madison Square Garden. Known for his edgy humor, Hinchcliffe took the stage on Sunday ahead of the former president, targeting various races and groups in his typical no-holds-barred style. While some jokes landed with a mix of reactions, one in particular sparked backlash. Hinchcliffe referenced a "floating island of garbage in the ocean" and called it "Puerto Rico," a line that left the crowd uncertain on how to react. Hinchcliffe himself seemed to recognize he'd crossed a line with the audience.

Public figures quickly responded, with notable reactions from Tim Walz, Kamala Harris' former VP candidate, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who were streaming on Twitch during the rally. Walz reminded viewers that Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens who pay taxes and serve in the military, emphasizing that such a remark is hurtful and disrespectful.

Hinchcliffe addressed the backlash, arguing that he’s an equal-opportunity comedian who took aim at a range of groups in his set. However, his explanation didn’t sit well with many prominent figures, including Ricky Martin, Bad Bunny, Congressman Ritchie Torres, and Puerto Rico's Republican Party Chairman Ángel Cintrón, all of whom voiced their disappointment online.

Hinchcliffe, familiar to some from his sharp barbs on the Roast of Tom Brady, may be no stranger to controversy, but this particular joke has sparked a wave of criticism that could continue building momentum in the days to come.