Trump’s Brush with Assassination Alters Republican National Convention Dynamics

Donald Trump was always going to be feted as a conquering hero at the Republican National Convention this week. But his brush with an assassin’s bullet means the adulation and the self-righteous confidence of his supporters will be even more intense. For Joe Biden, the events surrounding the assassination attempt – along with Trump’s immediate, defiant reaction – are yet more political hits that can only further destabilize a teetering re-election campaign.

Ahead of the RNC, which begins Monday, how will Trump’s assassination attempt affect the Republican nominating convention?

As one politically momentous week comes to an end and another begins, NPR’s correspondents, Franco Ordoñez and Ximena Bustillo, reflect on the situation from Milwaukee, the site of the Republican National Convention. The atmosphere in Milwaukee last night and this morning was a mix of anticipation and tension following the attempted assassination of Trump.

Last night, the site of the convention was fairly empty, with delegates and GOP lawmakers still flying in for the event. However, individuals like Cooper Walden from Illinois felt compelled to show support after hearing about the shooting. This morning, a parade in Sussex, Waukesha County, displayed a Republican-leaning crowd showing solidarity despite the news. Elsewhere, Democrats canceled events, and Turning Point USA held a vigil in Milwaukee.

Trump’s response to the attempt on his life has been visible on social media and through a brief, respectful call with President Biden. The presidential campaign continues as scheduled, with Trump insisting on sticking to his plans in Milwaukee. Several key speakers, including Nikki Haley and Tim Scott, are lined up for talks during the convention.

The atmosphere inside the convention hall is expected to be charged, with a mix of reflection on the violence and heated rhetoric likely to dominate discussions. Security measures have been heightened, with Secret Service working alongside local law enforcement from different states to ensure safety at the event.

Wisconsin, a pivotal swing state, holds high stakes in the upcoming election. Both Republicans and Democrats are mobilizing voters, aware of the state’s history of close margins. How voters in Wisconsin react to the news cycle and political events will play a crucial role in shaping the election outcome.