Former President Donald Trump made a triumphant appearance at the opening night of the Republican National Convention, just two days after surviving an attempted assassination. Delegates cheered as Trump emerged with a bandage over his right ear, visibly emotional, while Lee Greenwood sang “God Bless the USA.” However, Trump did not address the convention.
Earlier in the day, delegates nominated Trump to lead their ticket for a third time and welcomed Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his running mate. Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley called for unity within the party and the nation, emphasizing the need to show strength and resilience like President Trump. However, Republican leaders made it clear that their calls for harmony did not extend to President Joe Biden and Democrats, whom they viewed as a clear and present danger to America.
The recent shooting at a Pennsylvania rally, where Trump was injured and one man died, was still fresh in the delegates’ minds as they celebrated. The contrast between the anger and anxiety of the previous days and the jubilant atmosphere at the convention was palpable. Some delegates chanted “fight, fight, fight,” echoing the words Trump shouted to the crowd as he was escorted off the stage.
The scene upon Trump’s formal nomination showcased his popularity among Republican activists. Video screens in the arena read “OVER THE TOP” as delegates danced and waved Trump signs. Multiple speakers used religious imagery to discuss Trump and the assassination attempt, portraying him as an American lion who got back on his feet despite the devil’s attempt to harm him.
Another boost to the convention’s mood came with a major court victory for Trump. The federal judge presiding over his classified documents case dismissed the prosecution due to concerns over the appointment of the prosecutor. This victory further energized Trump’s supporters.
The convention aimed to reach people beyond the GOP base by featuring a softer and more optimistic message. Speakers included everyday Americans, such as a single mother discussing inflation and a lifelong Democrat now backing Trump. Black Republicans, who have been instrumental in the Trump campaign’s efforts to win over Democratic voters, also took the stage.
Ohio Sen. JD Vance’s selection as Trump’s running mate was seen as a crucial step toward building a winning coalition. Vance’s Appalachian upbringing, as detailed in his best-selling memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,” resonated with working-class Americans who helped propel Trump to victory.
While calls for harmony were made, some of the opening speakers at the convention were known for their incendiary remarks. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and North Carolina gubernatorial nominee Mark Robinson, both controversial figures, took the stage. Robinson had previously made inflammatory comments about “evil” people threatening American Christianity, but he avoided such rhetoric during his convention speech.
As Trump’s nomination took place, President Biden sat for a national TV interview to address concerns about his fitness for office. Biden admitted to making a mistake when he told Democratic donors to put Trump in a “bullseye.” Republicans have seized on this comment since the assassination attempt, blaming Biden for inciting the attack. However, Biden maintained that contrasting with Trump’s language and behavior is a legitimate part of a presidential contest.
Inside the convention arena, Republicans continued their attacks on Biden, playing a video mocking his physical stamina and mental acuity. They often referred to the “Biden-Harris administration” and took subtle digs at Vice President Kamala Harris, hinting at the possibility of Biden stepping aside in favor of Harris.
Overall, the opening night of the Republican National Convention showcased Trump’s enduring popularity among Republican activists and aimed to broaden his appeal beyond the party base. It emphasized unity within the party while maintaining a strong opposition to President Biden and Democrats. The convention sought to present a more optimistic message while not shying away from criticizing Biden and his administration.
