MICHIGAN, USA: Donald Trump, in his first campaign rally since surviving an assassination attempt, fervently addressed a crowd in Michigan, emphatically stating, “I took a bullet for democracy.” He dismissed concerns about his potential threat to America’s democratic system and countered claims of extremism.
Trump derided the Democratic Party, highlighting the uncertainties surrounding President Joe Biden’s reelection bid amid concerns over Biden’s age and fitness to serve. “They have no idea who their candidate is,” Trump remarked, criticizing attempts to undermine Biden’s election results.
In his speech, Trump reiterated his hardline stance on immigration, falsely accusing migrants of increased crime rates, and continued to assert, without evidence, that the 2020 election was rigged by the Democrats. He praised authoritarian figures, notably China’s Xi Jinping, for their control over large populations.
Recalling the assassination attempt, Trump described his reaction immediately after being shot. He recounted raising his fist and urging his supporters to “fight!” The audience in Grand Rapids responded with fervent chants, though some left as his address extended beyond 90 minutes.
The rally, held exactly one week after the assassination attempt, saw Trump sporting a small bandage over his right ear, injured by the gunman who killed one bystander. Despite this, Trump’s speech was marked by his usual divisive rhetoric, including insults directed at Biden and Harris, calling them “stupid” and “nuts.”
The Biden-Harris campaign dismissed Trump’s speech, accusing him of “peddling the same lies” and running a campaign fueled by “revenge and retribution.”
Security was heightened at the Van Andel Arena, addressing concerns over Secret Service lapses during the Pennsylvania rally. However, there were few visible signs of increased law enforcement presence in Grand Rapids.
Meanwhile, within the Democratic Party, pressure mounts for Biden to reconsider his reelection bid. Though Biden’s team remains publicly committed to his campaign, there are reports of internal discussions about a possible withdrawal. Vice President Kamala Harris is seen as the likely successor if Biden steps aside. Senator Elizabeth Warren expressed support for Harris, emphasizing her readiness to unite the party and challenge Trump.
Amidst the internal Democratic tensions, Trump’s campaign, buoyed by recent favorable court rulings and Biden’s poor debate performance, appears confident. The rally marked the debut of Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, a U.S. senator with a strong appeal in Rust Belt states.
Supporters of Trump gathered enthusiastically, with some lining up a day in advance. Edward Young, a supporter wearing a T-shirt depicting Trump’s defiant fist-pump photo post-shooting, expressed a sentiment shared by many: “They have turned him into a martyr and left him alive. Now he’s more powerful than ever.”
