Trump’s eventful day in Miami: From ‘Witch Hunt’ to ‘Happy Birthday’

Former President Trump Arraigned in Miami

It was an eventful Tuesday in Miami as former President Donald Trump faced arraignment in a classified documents case brought by special counsel Jack Smith. But that didn’t stop Trump from greeting supporters at a Cuban restaurant later in the day, where they sang “Happy Birthday” to him ahead of his 77th birthday on Wednesday.

Trump Denounces “Witch Hunt”

Before surrendering to authorities at the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. U.S. Courthouse, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to decry what he called a “witch hunt” as he faces multiple investigations while running for the presidency again. Supporters and critics alike had gathered outside the courthouse, including GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who challenged other candidates in the 2024 race to sign a pledge to pardon Trump in the documents case or explain their refusal.

Security Incident and Arrest

During the arraignment, law enforcement investigated a suspicious device that turned out to be a flat-screen television displaying a message that said, “F*** The Communist Controlled News Media.” Later, a man wearing a prison uniform and holding a “Lock Him Up” sign jumped in front of Trump’s motorcade, prompting Secret Service and police to apprehend him.

Trump Pleads Not Guilty

Trump reportedly did not speak during the hearing, but he did plead not guilty through an attorney to 37 charges, including 31 alleged violations of the Espionage Act for “willful retention” of national defense information, as well as charges related to obstruction and making false statements.

Trump Released on Own Recognizance

Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman ordered Trump not to communicate with the co-defendant, his aide Walt Nauta, or any potential witnesses about the case. Trump was then reportedly released on his own recognizance. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump nominee, has been appointed to oversee the impending trial, but is facing some calls to recuse herself over past rulings in the documents matter.

Trump Thanks Supporters

After leaving the courthouse, Trump appeared at the well-known Cuban restaurant Versailles, where he was seen glad-handing supporters and being serenaded with “Happy Birthday.” By late afternoon, Trump’s plane was taking off from Miami International Airport en route to his resort in Bedminster, New Jersey, where he is slated to hold a fundraiser and deliver remarks in the evening.

Thank you Miami. Such a warm welcome on such a SAD DAY for our Country!