"MISSOULA, Mont. — President Trump praised a Republican candidate’s assault last year on a reporter and fumed over his Democratic opponents here on Thursday night in a freewheeling rally meant to mobilize his base’s support in the coming midterm elections.
In urging the crowd to vote for Representative Greg Gianforte, who is running for re-election and who was sentenced to anger management classes and community service for assaulting a reporter last spring, Mr. Trump jokingly warned the crowd to “never wrestle him.”
“I had heard he body-slammed a reporter,” Mr. Trump said, noting that he was initially concerned that Mr. Gianforte would lose in a special election last May. “I said, ‘Wait a minute. I know Montana pretty well; I think it might help him.’ And it did.”
“Anybody that can do a body-slam,” the president added, “that’s my kind of guy.”"
Emily Cochrane reports for the New York Times October 19, 2018.
SEE ALSO:
"Trump: People Who Assault Journalists Are The Best" (Vice News)
"Trump Praises Lawmaker For Assaulting Reporter" (CNN)
"Trump’s Attacks on the Press Are Illegal. We’re Suing." (Politico/PEN America)
"Trump Hails Body Slamming Congressman Greg Gianforte In Montana" (BBC News)
"At Montana Rally, Trump Praises Congressman For Assaulting Reporter" (Washington Post)
