Donald Trump References 1988 Campaign Ad During North Carolina Rally
Donald Trump referenced a racially offensive 1988 campaign ad featuring a Black man during a campaign stop in Gastonia, North Carolina.

Burlington Plattsburgh, VT, September 18, 2026 —
During a campaign stop in Gastonia, North Carolina, former President Donald Trump referenced a 1988 campaign advertisement that has been described as racially offensive. The ad in question featured a Black man.
The specific context or purpose of Trump’s reference during the rally was not detailed in the provided information. The summary states that the ad itself was racially offensive and featured a Black man. The campaign stop took place in Gastonia, North Carolina.
The 1988 advertisement is part of a historical record of political messaging. The details surrounding Trump’s most recent mention of this ad, including any statements made in conjunction with the reference, are limited to the fact that it occurred during his campaign event in North Carolina.
Further details regarding the specific remarks made by Donald Trump, the audience’s reaction, or any subsequent commentary on the reference were not provided in the initial summary.
Story summarized from the original created by COREY WILLIAMS, Associated Press on www.mychamplainvalley.com, see more information here.
Media gallery

