Donald Trump, undeterred by a recent assassination attempt, held his first outdoor campaign event since the incident, addressing a crowd in North Carolina with his signature blend of controversy and hyperbole.
Speaking from behind bulletproof glass at an aviation museum, Trump labeled Kamala Harris as the “most radical left person” to run for the White House, predicting catastrophic consequences if she wins, including the loss of millions of jobs and the wiping out of life savings.
The event marked a return to form for Trump, who has built his political brand on large-scale rallies. The Secret Service had recommended indoor events since the assassination attempt, but Trump was determined to reclaim his dominance in outdoor settings.
The rally featured a bulletproof screen around the podium, and Trump even ventured into the crowd to check on an attendee’s medical issue. The event highlighted the importance of crowds to Trump’s political brand, as well as the challenges of ensuring security at such gatherings.
The rally comes as Kamala Harris surges in popularity, consistently filling large venues and upending Trump’s strategy of portraying himself as the dominant force in the election. North Carolina, where the rally was held, is a crucial swing state that could determine the outcome of the November 5 election.
