United States – Donald Trump formally agreed to be the Republican presidential candidate when he delivered a 75-minute acceptance speech during the Republican National Convention held in Milwaukee. He began his campaign by appealing to the unity urging people to vote for him as a president of all Americans, but after that, he went back to the normal mean self, spewing anger, boasts, and threats. Trump attacked the Biden administration, shared an unproven assumption about criminal cases, and stated that the world might face war with Biden, as reported by Reuters.
Incident in Pennsylvania and Trump’s Dramatic Presentation
Trump recounted a recent incident in Pennsylvania where he claimed he was nearly shot. He described raising his hand to his ear after hearing the noise of a bullet and seeing blood. Pictures of Trump bruised were displayed, and he thanked the Secret Service agents for their protection. This emotional moment was met with chants of support from the delegates.
Focus on Immigration and Crime
Migrants were a central theme of Trump’s speech. He made alarming statements about migrants being released from prisons, jails, and mental institutions and read the names of Americans allegedly killed by immigrants. Scholars, however, note that crime rates among immigrants are not higher than those of the native population.
Record-Breaking Speech Duration
Trump’s speech, lasting one hour and three minutes, set a record for the longest acceptance speech by a nominee in US history, surpassing his previous record in 2020.
Biden Campaign in Crisis
While Trump was in the center of attention, Joe Biden campaign had many challenges. President Joe Biden who contracted COVID-19 was much less visible throughout this period, specifically in the campaign trail. Senior Democrats urged him to quit arguing that his faltering campaign and the June 27th debate showed that he no longer had a chance.
Celebrities and Supporters Rally for Trump
Trump’s entrance to the convention stage was dramatic, with Hulk Hogan and Kid Rock performing, and UFC chief Dana White introducing Trump as “the toughest, most resilient guy” he had ever met. Trump’s running mate, Senator J.D. Vance, and his family joined him on stage as balloons descended, symbolizing his firm control over the Republican Party.
Democrats Urge Biden to Step Down
Amid growing calls for his withdrawal, Biden is reportedly considering stepping down. Democratic Senator Jon Tester and 21 other Congressional Democrats have urged Biden to quit his bid for re-election. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is among the latest to suggest that Biden cannot win in November, as reported by Reuters.
As Biden faces internal party pressure and health challenges, the Democratic campaign appears to be at a critical crossroads.