Former President Donald Trump, who triumphed over his primary challengers, was convicted of a felony, and survived an assassination attempt, formally accepted his third GOP nomination for president at the Republican National Convention. This marked his first public address since the attack at a rally in Pennsylvania.
A Lengthy Speech
In his speech, Trump promised “the four greatest years in the history of our country” and called for unity, recounting details from the recent attempt on his life. “I’m running to be president for all of America,” he declared. He outlined key campaign promises on the economy and border security, while also making several false claims in an off-script address. For a detailed analysis, see fact checks from his speech here.
TRUMP: COME IN BUT COME IN LEGALLY
Former President Donald Trump criticized the current administration’s border policies, claiming they have led to unprecedented numbers of people entering the U.S. illegally. “The current administration terminated all my border policies. I wanted to seal the border but allow legal entry. Now, unprecedented numbers of people are pouring in from South America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. This is unfair to those who have been waiting for years. We won’t stand for it. The greatest invasion in history is happening right here,” Trump stated.
TRUMP: NO TAX ON TIPS
Addressing the issue of taxes on tips, Trump shared a personal anecdote. “The waitress told me the government hassles her over tips. I suggested, ‘What if there was no tax on tips?’ She loved the idea. It’s clear: people like waitresses, caddies, and drivers are hurt by taxes on their earnings. Let them keep their money,” he said.
TRUMP: DANA WHITE CUT HIS VACATION SHORT TO BE HERE
Trump praised UFC President Dana White for his dedication. “Dana White was on a rare vacation, promising his wife not to interrupt it. When called to assist, he initially declined but later changed his mind after his wife insisted he couldn’t turn it down. That’s a good wife,” Trump remarked.
TRUMP: I WANT TO THANK MY FAMILY
Trump expressed gratitude to his family during his speech. “I also want to thank my entire family for being here: Senator Don, Kimberly, Ivanka and Jared, Eric and Lara, Tiffany and Michael, and Barron—we love our Barron. Of course, my ten wonderful grandchildren; you saw a few of them up there on my lap before.”
TRUMP PAYS TRIBUTE TO FALLEN FIREFIGHTER AT RNC
During his acceptance speech, Trump paid tribute to firefighter Corey Comperatore by stepping away from the podium to kiss his helmet reverently.
TRUMP: I PLEDGE ALL MY ENERGY TO FIGHT FOR THIS NATION
Trump reaffirmed his commitment to the nation. “I pledge all my energy and fight to our nation. This election should focus on making America successful, safe, free, and great again. In times of division, we must remember we are one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
TRUMP: THOSE RALLY GOERS WERE SOME SERIOUS TRUMPSTERS
Reflecting on a past rally, Trump praised the audience and remembered Cory Comperatore, who lost his life protecting others. “For the rest of my life, I will be grateful for the love shown by that giant audience of patriots that stood bravely on that fateful evening in Pennsylvania. Tragically, the shooter claimed the life of one of our fellow Americans, Cory Comperatore, an unbelievable person. We’re never going to forget them. They came for a great rally. They were and are serious Trumpsters, I want to tell you. Corey, unfortunately, we have to use the past tense. He lost his life selflessly acting as a human shield to protect them from flying bullets. He went right over the top of them and was hit. What a fine man he was.”
TRUMP: IF I HADN’T MOVED MY HEAD, THE BULLET WOULD’VE HIT ITS MARK
Trump recounted a near-miss incident at a rally in Butler Township, PA. “It was a warm evening in Butler Township, PA. As I spoke about our great job on immigration, I turned to view a chart. Suddenly, I heard a whizzing sound and felt something hit my right ear. Blood covered my hand, and I realized we were under attack. Brave Secret Service agents rushed to protect me. Despite the chaos, I felt safe with God on my side. If I hadn’t moved my head, the bullet would’ve hit its mark. Remarkably, the crowd didn’t panic, which is very unusual.”
TRUMP: I PROUDLY ACCEPT YOUR NOMINATION FOR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
Concluding his speech, Trump accepted the nomination for president. “I am running to be president for all of America, not half of America, because there is no victory in winning for half of America. So tonight, with faith and devotion, I proudly accept your nomination for president of the United States.”
