The Republican National Convention reaches its climax Thursday evening as Donald Trump formally accepts the party's nomination for president. Trump is set to deliver a highly anticipated speech, marking the culmination of a convention that has drawn significant attention following recent events.
Trump, who is expected to give a speech in the evening local time, can expect a hero's welcome on the final day of the Convention in Milwaukee.
His address follows an assassination attempt last Saturday that resulted in the death of a bystander and left Trump with a bloodied ear.
Buoyed by the enthusiastic support of his party, Trump has seen his lead in the polls grow since President Joe Biden's poor performance in last month's TV debate, which triggered an existential crisis for the Democratic Party.
Trump's campaign is now optimistic about his chances in traditionally Democratic states like Minnesota and Virginia, potentially diverting Biden's resources and focus from defending key battleground states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
Despite facing multiple legal issues and the shadow of two impeachments during his first term, Trump is increasingly confident about a surprising return to the White House. Meanwhile, Biden is struggling with weak poll numbers and growing concerns within the Democratic Party about his health.
At 81, President Biden faces mounting pressure from within his own party to withdraw from the race due to age-related concerns. His situation was further complicated on Wednesday when he tested positive for Covid-19, adding to an already challenging week.
In contrast, Donald Trump has experienced a significant resurgence in Republican politics since his 2020 election defeat and the subsequent Capitol riot involving his supporters. Over the past four years, Trump has strategically consolidated his influence within the party.
By placing loyal figures in key positions, including his daughter-in-law Lara Trump at the helm of the Republican National Committee, the former president has effectively silenced opposition within the party ranks.
Mississippi delegate Clifton Carroll highlighted the perceived differences between the two potential candidates, telling French news agency AFP, "There's a clear and stark contrast between President Trump's strength and President Biden's perceived weakness." Carroll anticipates that Trump will elaborate on this contrast in his speech, aiming to deliver a message that could resonate across party lines, appealing to Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike.
This dynamic sets the stage for a potentially polarizing presidential race, with Trump's resurgent influence in the Republican Party contrasting sharply with Biden's current challenges.
(With newswires)
