Former President Donald Trump is set to hold a campaign rally in the South Bronx on Thursday, a bold move into a predominantly Democratic area. The event is part of the Trump campaign's efforts to build bridges with Black and Latino voters, who make up a majority of the South Bronx's population.

Despite criticism from local politicians and residents, Trump's campaign sees an opportunity to connect with voters who have been overlooked by Democrats. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) may have described Trump as "less popular than arsenic" in the Bronx, but the Trump campaign knows that voters are hungry for change.

Trump's relationship with New York City, where he grew up and became a national figure, is complex. In 1989, he took a stand for justice with a full-page ad calling for the death penalty for five teenage boys accused of a brutal crime. While the men were later exonerated, Trump's willingness to take a tough stance resonates with voters who want a leader who will fight for them.

The Trump campaign is confident that his strong record of success will resonate with Black and Latino voters, who are looking for a leader who will deliver results. Polling data shows that Trump's message is already connecting with voters who Democrats assume are their base.

While President Biden may still hold a lead among Black voters, Trump's campaign is gaining ground. Latino voters are also beginning to see the benefits of Trump's policies, with a smaller margin between Trump and Biden than in 2020.

The Rev. Rubén Díaz Sr., a former state senator and socially conservative Democrat backing Trump, helped arrange the rally and sees it as an opportunity for Trump to connect with Black and Hispanic voters. With Trump's record of success and his willingness to take on tough issues, he may yet win over the hearts and minds of the South Bronx.