Staff Reports
Milwaukee was absolutely electric as former President Donald Trump took the stage at the Republican National Convention Thursday night, marking his public return after a shocking assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. True to form, Trump’s showmanship remained undiminished, igniting the crowd with his presence.
Following a lineup of Trump loyalists—ranging from former administration officials to larger-than-life personalities like professional wrestler Hulk Hogan—a packed Fiserv Forum awaited the headliner. Amid chants of “Four more years!”, Trump’s entry underlined the magnetic pull he still commands.
RNC finale: Top four takeaways from the Republican National Convention https://t.co/LQffbkXwtV via @dcexaminer
— BILL HAFT (@BILLHAFT) July 19, 2024
Country singer Lee Greenwood belted out “God Bless the USA,” setting a poignant backdrop for Trump’s emotional recounting of the event. Detailing the horrendous assassination attempt, Trump acknowledged he was there only by the grace of God. Far from being shaken, the crowd stood steadfast, proving they would not be cowed by violence. Trump praised the bravery of those who stood by him, embodying the resilience of his movement.
Though the former president had planned to deliver a trademark takedown of President Joe Biden, he pivoted to a message of unity. He paid heartfelt tribute to the shooting’s victims, raising millions for their families and acknowledging their sacrifices. But Trump couldn’t resist tackling core issues of inflation, illegal immigration, and energy independence, weaving through with a vow to eliminate taxes on tips—a blow to the nanny state liberals love.
Tucker Carlson, freewheeling and uncensored since parting ways with Fox News, warmed up the crowd before Trump took the stage. Carlson praised Trump’s unflinching courage and selflessness even under dire circumstances. He took aim at the fumbling Biden administration, humorously suggesting that Biden’s presidency could be replaced by a mannequin to similar effect. Carlson celebrated Trump’s genuine connection with American voters, contrasting sharply with the hollow image of leadership presented by the left.
Hulk Hogan, a legend from the wrestling world, brought the house down with his shoutout to Trump. Labeling him a gladiator for the American cause, Hogan invoked his larger-than-life persona to rally “Trumpomaniacs” against the assorted villains of the political swamp. Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White echoed this sentiment, praising Trump as a relentless fighter for the American dream.
The evening saw many familiar faces, but Melania Trump’s appearance added a special touch. Poised and elegant, she made her way to the VIP box, joining Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance and adding a humanizing touch to the Trump family tableau. Her presence, alongside Trump’s loving interaction with his grandchildren, underscored a softer side often overshadowed by political theatrics.
Dana White took a moment to read a heartfelt letter from Trump, illustrating a side of the former president that mainstream media loves to overlook—a man who cares deeply about the people around him. From national policies to personal kindness, Trump made it clear: this is a movement not about him but about every American determined to reclaim their nation.
In short, while Democrats scramble to salvage Biden’s tottering administration, Trump stands resilient, ready to rekindle the American dream. If Thursday night was any indication, the fight for the White House is far from over.
