Summary

At a North Carolina rally, Donald Trump used aggressive language, questioning if he was “allowed to hit” Michelle Obama after her recent criticism of his values and policies.

Though Trump spoke metaphorically, his comments drew backlash, with analysts calling the remark in poor taste. Trump recounted an imaginary conversation with his staff advising him to tone down his rhetoric, prompting cheers from supporters urging him to “hit back.”

The statement, shared widely on social media, has raised concerns about its impact on the gender gap and support among conservative women voters.