Former President Donald Trump held his first outdoor rally on Wednesday in Asheboro, North Carolina, since surviving an assassination attempt. The event, marked by heightened security, saw Trump take to the stage surrounded by bulletproof glass panels both in front of and behind him, underscoring the ongoing concerns for his safety.
Addressing a large and energized crowd, Trump wasted no time in launching a sharp critique of Vice President Kamala Harris. He accused Harris of being a destructive force, claiming, “She’ll destroy our country just like she destroyed San Francisco.” Trump’s attack on Harris extended to the issue of immigration, where he blamed her and the Biden administration for what he described as a crisis at the southern border, citing the surge in immigrant arrivals as a direct result of their policies.
The rally, which drew thousands of supporters, also featured a speech by Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, who took the stage earlier in the evening to rally the crowd. Vance, a staunch Trump ally, praised the former president’s leadership and warned against the policies of the current administration.
Trump, in his own remarks, reflected on his time in office, highlighting his administration’s achievements while continuing to castigate his Democratic opponents. “They make it personal,” Trump said, referring to the Democrats, a comment that resonated with the crowd, who responded with chants of support.
The use of bulletproof glass at the rally serves as a stark reminder of the dangers Trump faces on the campaign trail. Despite these challenges, Trump remains a dominant figure in the Republican Party, with his supporters showing unwavering loyalty as he gears up for a potential 2024 presidential bid.
The rally in Asheboro underscores Trump’s continuing influence and the intensity of his rhetoric as he remains a key player in the national political landscape.