In his first public remarks since the federal indictment, former president Donald Trump spoke out against what he called a “political hit job” during a speech at a Republican fundraising event on Saturday. Trump’s address was marked by his continuing attacks on both President Biden and the so-called “deep state.” The former president also expressed defiance in the face of the charges being brought against him, saying “I will never be detained.”

Trump’s speech comes just days after he and his allies stepped up their criticism of law enforcement officials involved in the investigation into his business dealings. On Friday, a newly unsealed document revealed that prosecutors in New York had obtained a trove of records related to Trump’s finances and business activities. The document showed that investigators had been searching for evidence of bank and tax fraud, as well as evidence of potential violations of campaign finance laws.

As the investigation into Trump’s finances continues, many observers are suggesting that his speech on Saturday was an attempt to rally his political base in the face of mounting legal challenges. Despite the charges against him, the former president remains a hugely popular figure among Republican voters, and could still wield significant influence within the party.

The unfolding legal drama surrounding Trump is likely to remain a major news story in the coming weeks and months. As the investigation continues, many are questioning whether the former president will be held accountable for his alleged crimes, and what impact his legal troubles could have on the future of the Republican party.