Former US President Donald Trump made his first public appearance at the Republican National Convention on Monday, following an assassination attempt on Saturday. Wearing a white bandage on his right ear, Trump received a standing ovation from the audience. Although he remained silent throughout the event, he actively participated by applauding officials and guests as they spoke. Supporters, carrying posters with slogan “Make America Wealthy Again,” demonstrated their unwavering loyalty.
At 78, Trump stood alongside his running mate, Senator JD Vance, acknowledging the applause and chants of “USA! USA!” Dressed in a blue suit and his signature red tie, he smiled and applauded as others addressed the convention and praised his survival.
This appearance followed Trump’s announcement of Ohio Senator JD Vance as his vice-presidential running mate for the upcoming election. He greeted Vance and other delegates and is scheduled to formally accept the party’s nomination in a prime-time speech on Thursday.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump expressed gratitude to the US Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response and extended condolences to the family of a person killed at the rally. President Biden has ordered an independent review, and Republican lawmakers have pledged swift investigations.
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle announced increased security measures for Trump and the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, emphasizing confidence in the revised security plan following the incident.
Trump is set to accept his party’s nomination on Thursday, positioning himself to challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming November 5 election.