Trump Holds First Joint Rally with Vance in Michigan Post-Assassination Attempt: ‘I Took a Bullet for Democracy’

Donald Trump returned to the campaign trail on Saturday, showcasing a smaller ear bandage from a recent shooting attempt and surrounded by “unprecedented” security at his rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Former President Donald Trump took the stage in Grand Rapids at his first rally since the assassination attempt on him in Pennsylvania. AP Photo/Evan Vucci

The event at the Van Andel Arena drew about 14,000 supporters, many of whom travelled from other states and camped overnight for prime spots.

Trump, 78, took the stage to cheers and chants from the crowd, reflecting on the assassination attempt that occurred exactly one week prior. “I stand before you only by the grace of almighty God,” he declared, describing his survival as a miraculous escape. He took the opportunity to honour firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed while protecting others during the shooting.

Trump told the crowd that he “took a bullet for democracy” this time a week ago. AP Photo/Evan Vucci

The former president, who spoke for nearly two hours, criticized the Heritage Foundation’s controversial “Project 2025” as extreme, distancing himself from the far-right agenda.

He emphasized his stance on immigration, claiming it saved his life and promising a “mass deportation” of illegal migrants if re-elected.

Trump sported a slightly smaller bandage on his right ear. AFP via Getty Images

Trump’s remarks also included light-hearted moments, including a joke about his hair and praise for his wife, Melania. He reiterated his commitment to GOP tickets nationwide, focusing on energy dominance and fighting drug cartels.

Trump honoured Corey Comperatore, the supporter who was killed in the rally shooting, during his Michigan speech. REUTERS

The rally followed a dramatic week marked by the July 13 shooting in Butler, Pa., which left Trump with a bloodied ear and resulted in one fatality and two injuries. With a strong police presence and heightened security measures in Grand Rapids, former Secret Service agent Jason Russell noted the exceptional level of protection in place.

Sen. JD Vance will speak at a Trump campaign rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on July 20, 2024. REUTERS/Tom BrennerBrenner

Trump’s campaign momentum continues to build, with polls indicating a potential victory over President Biden, whose re-election campaign faces challenges. Meanwhile, Biden is recuperating at his vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Del., amid calls from Democratic lawmakers for him to step aside.

Trump told the crowd he “shouldn’t be here.” AP

Supporters holding up “Trump/Vance” signs inside the arena. ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Vance called out Vice President Kamala Harris in his speech for her lack of action on the border crisis. ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Vance urged voters to support Republicans down the ballot across the country. Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Trump supporters lined up to get into the arena in Grand Rapids. REUTERS

Secret Service police stationed outside Van Andel Arena before the rally. AFP via Getty Images

Security at the rally is reported to be “unprecedented” after the assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania last week. AFP via Getty Images

Security guards and police officers check attendees at the entrance to the rally.

Michigan, a critical swing state, remains a key battleground. Trump narrowly won the state in 2016 but lost it to Biden in 2020.

As Trump campaigns energetically, former White House physician and current Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Tx.) reported that Trump is recovering well from the shooting, which nearly resulted in a fatal head injury.

Dan Olczak

"Editor with expertise in politics and crime, also known for travel blogging."

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