Staff Reports
Once again, immigration is taking the GOP spotlight at the Republican National Convention as Republicans rally behind one of former President Donald Trump’s signature issues. The former president, who built a substantial portion of his political foundation on staunch immigration policies, has long decried the unchecked flow of illegal immigrants over the U.S.-Mexico border. Despite recent reductions in arrests thanks to the suspension of asylum applications, Trump’s message remains clear: America’s borders are not safe under current leadership.
Like clockwork, Trump has continued to highlight the criminal elements and drug trafficking that have accompanied the influx of illegal immigrants. He points to specific gruesome crimes committed by some migrants, laying responsibility for the surge of illegal drugs like fentanyl at the feet of the current lenient immigration policies. With the left-wing media quick to label his pointed rhetoric as baseless, Trump’s claims of migrants entering to vote in 2024 have still struck a chord with the base.
Milwaukee’s convention atmosphere is positively electric following Trump’s near-miss with an assassin in Pennsylvania. Striding into the convention with a bandaged ear, he received thunderous applause, the crowd visibly relieved and elated at his presence. His running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, has been right by his side, solidifying a ticket that’s expected to galvanize the Republican electorate even further.
Republican convention focuses on immigration a day after a bandaged Trump makes triumphant entrance https://t.co/WP8opwnC8t pic.twitter.com/7KkrPOmSVG
— Orlando Sentinel (@orlandosentinel) July 16, 2024
The dynamic duo is slated to take the stage nightly, leaving no room for a dull moment. Vance is set to deliver his address on Wednesday, followed by the grand finale with Trump’s acceptance speech on Thursday. Tuesday night will serve as a platform for two of Trump’s main competitors during the primaries, Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis, signaling a united front aimed squarely at President Joe Biden.
As far as the campaign itinerary goes, the Republicans are sticking to a game plan that champions unity and strength. Party Chairman Michael Whatley emphasized this united vision, urging the GOP to rally behind Trump’s resilient spirit to steer the nation toward greatness. There’s no love lost for Biden and his fellow Democrats, who are seen as the antithesis of American prosperity and values. Republican leaders like Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson aren’t holding back in pointing out the dangers posed by Biden’s policies and his doubtful competence.
Naturally, immigration speakers have their marching orders: Seal the border and crack down on illegal immigration, period. Any ambiguity on this front will be swiftly swept aside, as delegates like Pennsylvania’s John Fredericks make unequivocally clear.
The convention is carefully choreographed to show a softer, more inclusive GOP while still holding firmly to conservative principles. RNC co-chair Lara Trump encouraged early voting, showing a strategic shift despite Trump’s previous skepticism towards early and absentee ballots. The opening night, dedicated to economic issues, featured “everyday Americans” telling their stories – from a single mother battling inflation to lifelong Democrats now siding with Trump, showcasing a coalition aimed at restoring American greatness.
Meanwhile, speakers like U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt underlined the pain inflicted by rising costs of living under the current administration and championed Trump as the solution. It’s clear: Republicans see a second Trump term not just as a political victory, but as the rescue mission America desperately needs.
