More than 12,000 people gathered to rally in support of Trump and Vance in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Trump’s Rally in Grand Rapids: A Packed House
Former President Donald Trump proclaimed on Saturday that he “took a bullet for democracy” while energizing a crowd of voters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This was his first rally since surviving an assassination attempt last week. Over 12,000 people filled the Van Andel Arena, home of the Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team, to witness him and his running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance. Both are fresh from a packed week at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, where they accepted their nominations for the GOP ticket.
Trump’s Stand for Democracy
“They keep saying he’s a threat to democracy. I’m saying, ‘What the hell did I do to democracy?’ Last week I took a bullet for democracy,” Trump declared, addressing a common Democrat talking point. The crowd cheered in response, underscoring their support for the former president.
Vance Criticizes Vice President Harris
Ahead of Trump, JD Vance took the stage to criticize Vice President Kamala Harris, questioning her contributions. “I’ve served in the United States Marine Corps … What the hell have you done?” Vance asked, drawing applause from the audience. He also spoke about his upbringing and his grandmother, whom he affectionately calls “Mamaw.”
Harris Responds to Vance’s Critique
Following Vance’s speech at the RNC, Vice President Harris responded, describing his story as compelling but incomplete. “Frankly, what is very telling is what he did not talk about on that stage. He did not talk about Project 2025, the 900-page blueprint for a second term,” Harris pointed out, labeling the plans as extreme and divisive.
Vance Addresses National Challenges
Vance later addressed the crowd about various national issues under President Biden’s administration, including the fentanyl crisis, the border crisis, and the economy. His remarks resonated with the audience, highlighting the perceived challenges facing the nation.
Trump Honors Supporters and Fallen Heroes
Taking the stage after Vance, Trump began by acknowledging the supporters injured or killed at the previous week’s rally. “We continue to pray for the recovery of the two citizens who were wounded in that evil attack – David Dutch and James Copenhaver, two really incredible people,” he said. He also paid tribute to Corey Comparatore, a firefighter who died protecting his family from the bullets, calling him a “hero.”
Engaging with the Audience
Trump engaged the audience by conducting a poll on who should be the Democratic nominee if President Biden steps down. “Who would you like to most run against, if you’re us, if we want to win? Kamala Harris? Crooked Joe Biden?” The crowd responded with louder boos for Biden, indicating their preference.
Recognizing Union Workers
During his speech about electric cars, Trump recognized an audience member who was a union worker. “Are you the same guy? Yes? No kidding,” Trump said, inviting the worker on stage and joking with him. The union worker expressed his support enthusiastically, “I told you, we’re gonna get 85 million of us out there to vote for him. So let’s go home from this rally and do our part.”
Criticizing Michigan Governor Whitmer
Trump also criticized Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, calling her a “terrible” leader. “Well, you have a terrible governor here who did a terrible job. Whitmer — I’d like to run against her, actually,” Trump laughed.
Michigan: A Key Battleground State
Michigan is poised to be a crucial battleground state in the upcoming election, potentially determining the next occupant of the White House. Polls suggest Trump leads Biden in every battleground state and even in some traditionally Democratic states. This comes amid growing calls from Democrats for Biden to step aside in favor of Harris or another candidate.