GRAND RAPIDS (US) (AFP) — Donald Trump is set to hold his first campaign rally on Saturday since surviving an assassination attempt, in stark contrast to US President Joe Biden, who faces growing pressure from Democrats to step down while confined to his home by COVID-19.
Thousands of enthusiastic supporters in Michigan gathered to hear Trump, with his running mate J.D. Vance firing up the crowd by criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris. Vance highlighted his own service in the United States Marine Corps and business background, contrasting it with Biden’s career.
Despite mounting calls for Biden to abandon his re-election campaign due to concerns about his age and fitness, the 81-year-old president and his team remain firm that he will continue. Discussions among his aides about a potential withdrawal are reportedly ongoing, with speculation on who might replace him. Harris, as vice president, appears best positioned to step in, with Sen. Elizabeth Warren recently endorsing her without dismissing Biden.
Trump’s rally marks a significant moment, coming exactly one week after surviving an assassination attempt. The attack has seemingly galvanized his support base, as evidenced by the packed Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Key Highlights:
- Trump’s Return to the Stage: This rally marks Trump’s first appearance since the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, boosting his campaign’s momentum.
- Biden’s Predicament: The president faces increasing pressure from his party to consider stepping down amid concerns about his age and health.
- Security Measures: With heightened security at the enclosed Van Andel Arena, the Trump campaign is taking no chances following the Pennsylvania incident.
- Support for Harris: Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s endorsement of Kamala Harris highlights the vice president’s potential to unify the party if Biden steps aside.
- Trump’s Message: Expected to criticize Biden and Harris on various issues, Trump is poised to leverage his recent “martyr” status to energize his base.
As Trump continues his campaign, his supporters remain fervent, believing his survival of the assassination attempt has made him more powerful. The rally underscores the contrasting states of the two leading political figures as the election approaches.
