On a night where Republicans projected confidence about their 2024 presidential prospects, Donald Trump began his prime-time address with an unexpected moment of vulnerability. During the Republican National Convention, where he formally accepted the party's nomination for a third consecutive term, Trump opened up about a recent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.
“I’m not supposed to be here tonight,” Trump told the audience at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum. The crowd responded with chants of “Yes, you are,” to which Trump replied, “Thank you, but I’m not.” He then shifted back into his familiar style, diverging from his prepared remarks to criticize political adversaries, celebrate the dismissal of one of his indictments, and highlight familiar crowd-pleasers in what became the longest nomination acceptance speech in modern history.
Trump took pride in his administration's economic achievements and lack of new foreign conflicts, while harshly criticizing President Joe Biden’s administration on border security, energy policies, and more. Although he claimed he would mention Biden only once, he did so twice: once to label Biden as the worst president in history and again to affirm it would be his only reference.
Despite the Republican convention's emphasis on unity, figures like far-right media personality Tucker Carlson were present, and there were plenty of jabs at Democrats. Eric Trump, much like his brother Donald Trump Jr. the previous night, delivered fiery rhetoric. The former president also condemned what he described as a politicized justice system and accused Democrats of electoral fraud.
### Key Moments from the Final Night of the RNC
**Trump’s Emotional Account of the Attack**
Trump allies had suggested that the recent assassination attempt had profoundly affected him. In his acceptance speech, Trump appeared unusually emotional as he recounted the attack in detail. The audience saw images on screens of the moment when a bullet narrowly missed him and later, the image of him with blood on his ear, signaling to the crowd that he was alright. Trump praised the crowd’s bravery for staying calm during the incident and honored Corey Comperatore, the former fire chief killed while protecting his family at the rally. He announced that over $6.3 million had been raised for Comperatore’s family and others affected by the attack.
**Limited Mention of Biden**
Trump stated he would name Biden only once, but did so twice, criticizing him as the worst president in history. This was part of a broader strategy to present a unified and forward-looking Republican Party, contrasting with potential Democratic challenges. Meanwhile, discussions surfaced about whether Biden should abandon his re-election bid, with reports indicating growing concern among senior Democrats about his chances.
**A Rare Appearance by Melania Trump**
Melania Trump, who has been largely absent from the campaign trail, made a notable appearance at the convention. Her entrance was marked by an extended classical music performance, and Trump expressed his deep honor at having her present. He highlighted a letter she wrote in response to the assassination attempt, which he said resonated deeply with many.
**The Night of ‘Trumpamania’**
The evening's tone was set by a series of high-energy, testosterone-fueled performances, including Hulk Hogan’s dramatic entrance and endorsement of Trump. The convention featured introductions by Kid Rock and UFC CEO Dana White, a nostalgic band performance, and speeches from various figures. Hogan’s fiery rhetoric and personal endorsement underscored the theme of patriotism and entertainment that characterized the night.
**A Convention Light on Policy**
The RNC’s final night was notable for its lack of detailed policy discussion. Instead, it featured celebrity appearances and broad generalities. Hogan’s remarks encapsulated the convention’s message, contrasting the perceived prosperity of Trump’s presidency with current issues like crime and economic troubles, presenting Trump as the sole solution to these problems. While Trump has distanced himself from the comprehensive policy plan known as Project 2025, which calls for restrictive measures and expanded presidential powers, he has kept the focus on his personal narrative and critique of current administration policies.
Overall, the convention was less about detailed policy and more about reinforcing Trump’s persona and rallying the Republican base for the upcoming election.
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