Trump Discusses Assassination Attempt, Then Returns To Campaign Attacks In RNC Speech

On Thursday night, after weeks of upheaval in American politics, former President Donald Trump called for national unity and strength as he accepted the Republican presidential nomination for the third time at the GOP convention’s closing night in Milwaukee.

Trump’s triumphant return to the spotlight, appearing on stage with a bandaged ear, came just five days after a bullet pierced his ear at a rally in Butler, Pennslyvania. 

Trump took the stage following a performance of “American Bad Ass” by Kid Rock, an introduction from UFC chief Dana White, a shirt-ripping endorsement from wrestling legend Hulk Hogan and a singalong of his rally anthem “God Bless America.”

In his 90-plus-minute speech, the longest acceptance speech by a presidential nominee in history, Trump recounted his assassination attempt and emphasized national unity.

However, he couldn’t resist sharp jibes at Democratic party leaders, turning his speech into a meandering address reminiscent of his usual rallies, complete with grim descriptions of a nation in decline.

Trump began his keynote address by addressing the assassination attempt the nation had witnessed just days earlier.

Speaking slowly and somberly, Trump recounted his near-death experience, saying it would be the only time because “it’s too painful to tell.”

“I’m not supposed to be here tonight,” said Trump, prompting the crowd to chant, “Yes you are!”

“I stand before you in this arena only by the grace of almighty God. Many people say it was a providential moment,” said Trump.

The former president honored Corey Comperatore, who was killed at the rally, walking over to a display of his firefighter’s uniform at one point and kissing the helmet.

Trump’s family also played a key role, with former First Lady Melania Trump and his daughter, Ivanka Trump, appearing beside him despite their generally low profile during his campaign.

Calling for national unity, Trump also used his speech to reach beyond his base, aligning with this year’s convention theme, which was partly designed to appeal to independent and traditionally Democratic voters.

He declared that he was “running to be president for all of America, not half of America” because “there is no victory in winning for half of America.”

Trump acknowledged voters who had not supported him before, offering “a hand of loyalty and friendship,” regardless of political party, race or gender.

“As long as our energies are spent fighting each other, our destiny will remain out of reach. We must instead take that energy and use it to realize our country’s true potential – and write our own thrilling chapter of the American story,” said Trump.

Soon though, Trump shifted to a message reminiscent of his typical rally speeches, describing violence and chaos at the southern border and promising to end conflicts abroad without providing specifics.

While attacking Democratic policies, Trump mentioned President Joe Biden only once, reflecting the emerging reality that Biden may soon no longer be a candidate.

Overall, this week’s Milwaukee convention dispelled any doubts about the president’s influence over the party, showcasing Trump’s “America First” movement through the adoption of a new party platform and nightly “Make America Great Again” themes.

It also marked a significant political victory for a former president who left the White House in disgrace less than four years ago following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by his supporters and a moment of personal triumph, coming just days after he survived an assassination attempt.