Former President Donald Trump took the stage at the Republican National Convention (RNC) on Thursday night, just days after narrowly surviving an assassination attempt.
His address marked a significant departure from his usual fiery rhetoric, focusing instead on themes of unity and healing.
In the aftermath of the harrowing incident, Trump’s speech emphasized a message of reconciliation and hope. He mentioned President Biden by name only once, avoiding the derogatory nicknames he has used in the past. “I stand before you this evening with a message of confidence, strength, and hope,” Trump declared.
“Together, we will launch a new era of safety, prosperity, and freedom for citizens of every race, religion, colour, and creed.”
The former president recounted the chilling details of the assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania, where he was shot but survived due to a fortunate last-moment movement.
“The amazing thing is that before the shot, if I had not moved my head at that very last instant, the assassin’s bullet would have perfectly hit its mark, and I would not be here tonight,” he said, describing the intense moments when “blood was pouring everywhere.”
Trump’s speech, his first public address since the attack, was met with rapturous applause from the RNC delegates. He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and highlighted the heroism of former fire chief Corey Comperatore, who was killed by a stray bullet during the attack. In a poignant gesture, Trump kissed Comperatore’s helmet on stage, honouring his sacrifice.
“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for others,” Trump said. “This is the spirit that forged America in her darkest hours, and this is the love that will lead America back to the summit of human achievement and greatness.”
Trump’s family, including his wife, Melania and daughter, Ivanka, supported him from the VIP box. Melania, who has remained largely out of the public eye during the 2024 campaign, received special thanks from Trump for her letter calling for national unity. The former president also acknowledged his campaign running mate, J.D. Vance, as they prepared for rallies in Michigan and Ohio.
Trump’s speech, which lasted nearly 93 minutes, broke the record for the longest acceptance speech by a presidential nominee in modern history. He promised to end various national and international crises, secure borders, and restore law and order.
He also vowed to bring about a “Golden Age” in the.., highlighting ambitious plans like a new Iron Dome Missile Defense System and breakthroughs in medical research.
As he concluded, Trump called for unity and asked the nation to realize America’s potential. “We “must take that energy and use it to realize our country’s potential — and write our thrilling chapter of the American Story,” he” said. “Ton” get, I ask for your partnership and support and humbly ask for your vote.”
The RNC featured a lineup of speakers close to Trump, including Steven and Zach Witkoff, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and media personality Tucker Carlson. The convention, themed “Mak” America Great Again,” to”k on a personal tone, with many speakers sharing anecdotes about TrumTrump’sdness and compassion.
Following the convention, Trump and Vance will embark on a campaign tour to galvanize support in key swing states across the Midwest.
