Trump claims North Carolina town hall protesters are paid

President Donald Trump claimed that protesters at a Republican congressman's town hall meeting were paid actors. He shared his thoughts on his Truth Social platform after witnessing the event held by Congressman Chuck Edwards in Asheville, North Carolina. Trump described the protesters as "Radical Left Lunatics," mostly Democrats, who shouted and used foul language. He alleged that they were "largely paid agitators" with fake signs, only there to cause trouble. The town hall event became contentious, with Rep. Chuck Edwards facing loud boos from attendees displeased with his support for cuts to federal spending. Many constituents expressed concerns about potential reductions to benefits for veterans, Social Security, and Medicare. Jay Carey, a retired disabled veteran, criticized Edwards for not supporting veterans. He felt that the congressman was following Trump's directives too closely. “I spent over 20 years fighting for this country,” Carey said, emphasizing that he earned his benefits. He labeled Edwards as "a puppet" and "a coward." Edwards defended himself, stating he "went toe-to-toe with the progressive left." Meanwhile, the task force led by Elon Musk is proposing significant cuts that could impact various federal departments, including Veterans Affairs. Both political parties are facing backlash from constituents worried about their representatives' actions. Polls show decreasing support for Democrats, while Republicans are criticized for aligning too closely with Trump and Musk. Despite this, Trump continues to dismiss any notion of genuine grassroots opposition to his policies.