N.Y.P.D. Chief Stirs Criticism With Newsmax Appearance at Trump Rally

A high-ranking New York City police chief drew criticism after appearing on a conservative news channel in full uniform at Donald J. Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally, with detractors saying he seemed to lend support to the Republican presidential nominee.

The official, John Chell, who was overseeing security as chief of patrol, spoke briefly to Newsmax, whose reporters and commentators often act as boosters for Mr. Trump and his campaign. Newsmax has positioned itself as a conservative alternative to Fox News and has been accused of spreading misinformation on his behalf.

Chief Chell has appeared several times on Newsmax, where reporters often shower him and the police with praise. Chief Chell has also appeared on shows that don’t have conservative audiences, including Brian Lehrer’s show on WNYC and “Morning Joe” on MSNBC.

On Sunday, Chief Chell sat with Newsmax reporters inside the arena, just before the rally began and as a crush of Trump supporters could be heard screaming and cheering.

“Everything is great,” Chief Chell told Newsmax, noting there were 19,000 people in the Garden and 5,000 outside. “Great atmosphere. Everyone is peaceful. We haven’t had one incident. No protesters. This is a very energetic day.”

He also said that the police had a message for protesters: “Not today.”

The appearance of Chief Chell, who has sparred with liberal members of the City Council on social media and with reporters whose stories he viewed as too critical of the department, drew rebukes on social media. A former F.B.I. specialist and a councilwoman accused him of appearing to cross a political line.