Trump alters speech following assassination attempt upon arrival in Milwaukee for Republican National Convention | US News
Donald Trump has announced a change in his upcoming speech at the Republican National Convention following an attempt on his life.
The former president arrived in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the convention a day after gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks shot at him from a roof during a campaign rally.
In an interview with the Washington Examiner during a flight on Saturday evening, Trump said: “The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger.”
“Had [the assassination attempt] not happened, this would’ve been one of the most incredible speeches” aimed mostly at the policies of President Joe Biden, he said.
“Honestly, it’s going to be a whole different speech now” and will be a message of unity for the country and world, according to Trump.
His plane landed at Milwaukee airport on Sunday evening. He raised a fist on the stairs before travelling in his motorcade, cheered on by supporters, to a hotel.
Trump stated on his Truth Social site earlier on Sunday that he initially planned to delay his trip by two days due to the assassination attempt but then decided against it, stating he would not allow the incident to dictate changes to his schedule.
In another post, he emphasized the importance of unity, resilience, and American character in light of the incident.
Trump sustained a bullet wound to his ear. Pic: AP
Trump, who was shot in the ear during the attack in Butler, Pennsylvania, which resulted in one audience member dead and two others injured, stated that the gunman was killed by the Secret Service.
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Reflecting on the shock of the event, Trump expressed the realization of the situation and the importance of his split-second decision that potentially saved his life.
He is set to accept his party’s official nomination at the Republican National Convention, commencing on Monday with participation from various Republicans.
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The FBI confirmed no known threats to the convention or participants, with the Secret Service anticipating no alterations to security plans.
Preparations for the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Pic: AP
The convention will feature televised speeches by rising Republican stars and Trump’s choice for a yet-to-be-announced vice presidential running mate, while highlighting the party’s stance on such topics as abortion, immigration and the economy.
Supporters line the streets to welcome Trump and his motorcade. Pic: AP
Trump is not expected to speak at the event until Thursday night.
