Trump to deliver his first speech since the shooting, addressing buoyant Republicans. Discover the key points and expectations from this significant event.
On Thursday, a celebratory Republican convention will take place in Milwaukee where Donald Trump is anticipated to officially accept the presidential nomination and conclude a four-day gathering that has emphasized his undeniable control over the party.
Amidst the recent court rulings in his favor and Joe Biden’s pitiable debate performance last month, the 78-year-old ex-president will seize this opportunity to deliver a primetime speech while riding high on momentum.
This marks his initial speech subsequent to barely escaping a murder endeavor during a gathering on Saturday. As he gave remarks on an open-air platform, someone fired in his direction, causing him to bleed profusely.
In an interview with CBS, Lara Trump mentioned that her father-in-law’s “brush with death” had an impact on him which will be evident in his upcoming speech. She further added that Americans should brace themselves to witness a transformed version of the President while he delivers his address on Thursday.
The Trump family has made the Wisconsin convention a gathering for all, where Lara Trump and numerous relatives have delivered speeches or graced the VIP box. The campaign appears to be promoting an image of a kinder Donald by frequently recounting stories that showcase his connection with loved ones while fostering unity.
Critics have taken note of this, and some prominent Democrats are pushing back against the message. Referring to the convention on Thursday, Vice President Kamala Harris stated that “they’ve been attempting to present themselves as a party of unity” in recent times.”
She said that if someone promotes an agenda that denies fundamental freedoms, opportunities and respect to entire groups of Americans, they cannot claim to be advocates for unity.
The party has announced that following speeches from Republican politicians, including Trump’s former primary rivals, delegates and governors throughout the week; on Thursday night, the former president will take center stage to unveil his plan for “ushering in a new golden age for America.”
On Sunday, Trump disclosed to the Washington Examiner newspaper that he had revised his speech following the assassination attempt. He altered it from attacking President Joe Biden’s policies to delivering a message of unity. “The speech I’ll be giving now will take on an entirely different tone,” stated Trump.
He added that this is an opportunity to unite not just the entire country, but even the whole world. “The speech will be considerably distinct from what it would have been two days ago,” he said.
On Saturday, a shooting occurred at the rally resulting in one attendee’s death and two others sustaining severe injuries. In addition, Trump was hit by a bullet which grazed his ear.
Throughout the week, Republican attendees have continuously praised him. Some of them even welled up with tears upon seeing him at the convention center and a few wore fake ear bandages to show support after the shooting.
Trump’s delivery of a message promoting unity would deviate from his usual campaign trail rhetoric, which involves condemning “communists, Marxist, fascists and the radical left thugs”.
Despite modifying the message, he is expected to follow in the footsteps of his running mate Ohio Senator JD Vance and condemn President Biden and his track record.
In his speech, Mr. Vance criticized “career politicians” such as Mr. Biden.
On Thursday, there will be appearances from notable figures such as Eric Trump, son of the previous president, ex-Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson and former Secretary of State for Trump’s administration – Mike Pompeo.
Introducing Trump will be Dana White, the president of Ultimate Fighting Championship who is also his friend. Prior to accepting his third successive Republican nomination formally, wrestler Hulk Hogan will address the attendees as well.
For the first time, Melania and Ivanka – both of whom belong to Trump’s family – are scheduled to make an appearance at the convention.
Donald Trump’s speech could potentially last until 22:30 CST during the evening session of the convention, which is expected to commence at approximately 17:45 CST (23:45 BST).
On Wednesday, President Biden tested positive for Covid-19 and as a result had to temporarily halt his campaign stops in Las Vegas, Nevada. The White House confirmed that he is currently experiencing only mild symptoms.
Reports surfaced on Wednesday that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries privately urged Mr Biden to step aside from his re-election campaign, causing him to face mounting pressure.
Several crucial swing states show polls indicating that Mr. Biden is behind the former president.
