Donald Trump will address a celebratory Republican convention in Milwaukee tonight, where he is expected to formally accept the presidential nomination. This will be his first speech since surviving an assassination attempt at a rally last Saturday.
The former president, 78, is anticipated to deliver a message of unity, influenced by his near-death experience. “It’s going to be a whole different speech now,” Trump told the Washington Examiner. “This is a chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together.”
Trump’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, told CBS, “Americans may see a ‘different version’ of him on Thursday.” She emphasized that the incident has deeply affected him and will be reflected in his address.
The convention has underscored Trump’s dominance in the party, featuring speeches from various Republican figures, including his family members. The event has been described as a “family affair” for the Trumps, with a consistent effort to present a softer, more unifying image of the former president.
Vice-President Kamala Harris criticized this portrayal, stating, “You cannot claim you stand for unity if you are pushing an agenda that deprives whole groups of Americans of basic freedoms, opportunity, and dignity.”
Trump’s speech will cap off a week of addresses from Republican politicians, delegates, and governors, including his former primary rivals. “This is a chance to usher in a new golden age for America,” the party announced.
The convention will feature appearances from notable supporters such as Dana White, president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and wrestler Hulk Hogan. Trump’s wife Melania and daughter Ivanka are also set to appear.
Trump’s speech will likely include criticism of President Biden, despite its altered message. Ohio Senator JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, previously assailed “career politicians” like Biden in his address on Wednesday night.
President Biden, meanwhile, has paused campaign stops in Las Vegas, Nevada, after testing positive for COVID-19. He is experiencing mild symptoms, according to the White House. Reports have emerged that senior Democrats are urging Biden to end his re-election campaign due to trailing polls in crucial swing states.
