Former Donald Trump political consultant Roger Stone touched down in Buffalo Thursday for a speaking engagement Friday evening. The Republican is speaking at the Forbes Theater to raise money for his legal defense.
Earlier this year Stone was arrested as part of the Mueller Investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Stone is facing numerous charges including witness tampering and making false statements.
Wearing his trademark sunglasses and a blazer, Roger Stone was the epitome of confidence despite his looming trial. Speaking with reporters at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, Stone said facing a judge was the furthest thing from his mind.
“I’m really here to speak on the President’s reelection,” he said. “I’m here to talk about contemporary politics as I see things.”
Although Stone sees victory for his former boss in the 2020 election, he warns the race will be tight.
“I have a lot of confidence in Donald Trump’s capabilities as a campaigner and a communicator,” he said. “I am worried about the enormous confidence among his supporters.”
One person Stone would love to see win the Democratic primary is Joe Biden, who Stone feels has corrupt business dealing overseas. Stone says Elizabeth Warren’s star continues to rise and he sees her facing off against Trump in the next presidential election.
The Forbes Theater event, dubbed "Roger Stone Uncensored," was organized by developer Carl Paladino. Buffalo political strategist Michael Caputo, a longtime friend of Stone, has been barred from attending Stone's event because Caputo's name being on a judge's list of people Stone cannot have contact with while his case is still pending.
