In an unexpected turn of events, CNN correspondent Kristen Holmes found herself acknowledging the overwhelming support former President Donald Trump received during a rally in the Bronx on Thursday, even in what she described as “one of the bluest counties in the entire country.”

During a segment with vehemently anti-Trump CNN anchor Anderson Cooper, Holmes expressed her surprise at the size of the crowd gathered at Crotona Park for Trump’s historic rally. “Certainly a bigger crowd than I think Democrats would like to see,” she remarked, highlighting the significance of the turnout in a deeply Democratic stronghold.

Holmes admitted, “I wasn’t sure what to expect,” given her experience covering similar rallies across the country. However, she noted a notable difference this time: “There were a lot of people here that were actually from the Bronx.”

Even CNN is admitting President Trump's rally in the Bronx was a massive success:

"Certainly a bigger crowd than I think Democrats would like to see, particularly given this is one of the bluest counties in the entire country!" 🔥 pic.twitter.com/XScfuQmnVa

— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) May 24, 2024

While the rally drew mixed reactions from Bronx residents, with some expressing opposition to Trump’s presence, Holmes revealed that many former Biden supporters were in attendance, disillusioned with the state of the economy and seeking alternatives.

Trump’s campaign estimated the crowd to be around 25,000 supporters, far surpassing the initial expectations of 3,500 attendees. The diverse turnout included individuals from various ethnic backgrounds and regions, debunking the notion that Trump’s appeal is limited to a specific demographic or geographic area.

Despite criticism from political opponents, including New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) — who called the rally’s attendees “clowns” — and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the rally proceeded without disruption. Trump seized the opportunity to address issues relevant to New York voters, such as infrastructure and job creation, earning praise for staying on message.

25k people, mostly New Yorkers, many from the Bronx, came out yesterday to support President Trump.

The Governor of New York… the same woman who said black kids don’t know what the word computer means, called these New Yorkers “CLOWNS.”

Governor Hochul, I hope you’re better… pic.twitter.com/80g1HavgEs

— Wesley Hunt (@WesleyHuntTX) May 24, 2024

The rally’s location in a historically Democratic borough underscores Trump’s efforts to broaden his support base, particularly among Black and Hispanic voters. While New York has remained a Democratic stronghold for decades, Trump’s growing traction suggests a shifting political landscape ahead of the next presidential election.

"You said you've always voted Democrat, but this year it's gonna change. Why?"

BRONX VOTER: "I've seen the change roll for the worst with the Bidenomics, with the Democrat Party. I've been Democrat all my life — and Donald Trump, he just has the RIGHT ANSWERS!" pic.twitter.com/OXzVQ6Bust

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) May 24, 2024