Former President Donald Trump delivered a stark portrayal of the influx of migrants into the United States, coupled with a foreboding suggestion of potential consequences for the auto industry should he not secure reelection.

Speaking during a rally in Dayton, Ohio, Trump, 77, insinuated that certain countries were releasing violent MS-13 gang members into the U.S., describing prisons as "teeming" with them.

Trump warns of ‘bloodbath’ in auto industry if he loses, says violent migrants are ‘not people’ but ‘animals’ https://t.co/UCwbYsnEnR

— Mike Elliott 🇺🇸 (@Mike___Elliott) March 17, 2024

Trump's comments

"I would do the same thing. If I had prisons that were teeming with MS-13 and all sorts of people … if you call them people. I don’t know if you call them people," Trump remarked.

Trump's remarks came amidst his campaign's efforts to link the growing migrant crisis to violent crime. However, critics swiftly condemned his rhetoric, accusing him of dehumanizing illegal immigrants.

Moreover, Trump warned of potential repercussions for the auto industry if he were not reelected, expressing intentions to impose a 100% tariff on imported cars.

These words sparked controversy, with headlines portraying Trump's comments as a dire prediction of a "bloodbath" should he fail to win another term. President Biden's campaign swiftly denounced these remarks.

Addressing Laken Riley

Throughout his speech, Trump reiterated his commitment to addressing violent crime perpetrated by immigrants, citing the case of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student killed by a suspected illegal immigrant.

He pledged to seek justice for Riley and promised to reverse Biden administration policies regarding border security.

Trump also criticized his 2024 rival, President Biden, labeling him as a threat to democracy due to alleged incompetence and misuse of government agencies for political gain. Biden's administration has refuted such claims, asserting their adherence to impartiality in law enforcement matters.

The situation in Ohio

Trump's rally coincided with a critical juncture in Ohio's political landscape, as Republicans prepared to nominate a candidate for the state's competitive Senate race.

Bernie Moreno, endorsed by Trump, faced off against state Sen. Matt Dolan and Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose in a bid to challenge Democratic incumbent Sen. Sherrod Brown.

In a characteristic move, Trump recited "The Snake" poem to underscore concerns about border security, warning of potential consequences for social security and democracy itself.

As the rally unfolded, Ohio Republicans showed strong support for Trump as the election shifts from the primaries to a rematch between the former president and Biden.