ASHEBORO, N.C. (AP) — On Wednesday, Donald Trump, the former president and current candidate, returned to the campaign trail with his first outdoor rally since last month’s assassination attempt. Speaking to supporters from behind bulletproof glass, he launched a series of critiques against his Democratic rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, during a spirited event in the key state of North Carolina.
In his speech, Trump labeled Harris as “the most radically left candidate” ever to run for the presidency and predicted economic catastrophe if she were to win. “Your life savings will disappear,” he warned the crowd. “Millions of jobs will vanish, and the America you know will be gone.”
This rally marked Trump’s first major outdoor campaign event since a gunman targeted him during a mid-July rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In that incident, a 20-year-old shooter opened fire, leaving Trump with minor injuries. A supporter was killed before the assailant was shot and killed by security. Trump was advised to limit his public appearances, especially outdoors, however, he continued his campaign, with more security measures at the Asheboro event, including addressing the crowd from behind bulletproof glass.
Trump’s speech was a fiery rebuke of his opponent and an effort to regain momentum in a race where he has been trailing in polls as his campaign is centered on invigorating his supporters and appealing to undecided voters in pivotal swing states such as North Carolina, which is essential for his route to success.
Regardless of the controversies, Donald Trump dedicated supporters show no signs of wavering. The emergence of Kamala Harris as the Democratic front-runner who officially secured her place as the party’s nominee., following President Joe Biden’s unexpected exit from the race earlier this year, represents the most formidable challenge to his campaign, has electrified the Democratic base, drawing in substantial crowds and campaign donations. .
Trump has sought to paint Harris as a dangerous extremist who poses a threat to the country’s basic values and economic stability as the momentum behind her candidacy grows as he highlighted his administration’s achievements, such as economic growth and military prowess, while warning of a bleak future under Harris. “If Kamala Harris wins, it’s almost guaranteed we’ll have World War III,” he proclaimed under Democratic leadership.
In contrast, Harris’ campaign promotes racial equity and economic recovery. Her cause has been defended by former President Barack Obama and cultural figures such as Eva Longoria who rallied with her slogan “She se puede” (“Yes, she can”), echoing Obama’s famous “Yes, we can” slogan.
As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, both candidates are increasing their efforts in swing states like North Carolina, Florida, and Pennsylvania, which will be critical in determining the election outcome.
Written by Imane Moumen
