At the Republican Convention, Trump Achieves Mythical Status
Jul 19, 2024
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Jonathan Swan and Reid J. Epstein discuss the Republican National Convention's unity behind Trump and Democrats considering Biden's replacement. Republicans show unwavering confidence in Trump's victory while reshaping his image for swing voters. Security lapses and calls to fire the Secret Service director add intrigue.
Trump's convention speech shifted from unity to divisive rhetoric, potentially alienating swing voters.
Democratic Party faces internal discord as prominent members consider replacing Biden on the ticket.
Deep dives
Republican National Convention - Day 1: Unveiling the Running Mate
On the first day of the Republican National Convention, the spotlight was on JD Vance, as he was unveiled as Donald Trump's new running mate amidst a dramatic reveal. The anticipation for Trump's entrance overshadowed Vance's moment until the former president made a grand appearance, emphasizing a sense of unity and emotion in the convention hall.
Trump's Speech Evolution at the Convention
Donald Trump's speech at the Republican National Convention started with a narrative of unity and emotional reflections post-assassination attempt, but gradually transitioned into his traditional rally style, focusing on inflammatory rhetoric, election claims, and portraying America as being on the brink of collapse. Despite attempts at a new tone, the speech ultimately reverted to familiar themes, leaving swing voters potentially untouched.
Biden Campaign Under Pressure
During the convention, prominent Democrats, including Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, showed signs of turning against Joe Biden due to concerns about his performance and poll numbers. As calls from within the party to persuade Biden to step down intensified, the Democratic Party faced internal discord, contrasting with the apparent unity and strength exhibited by the Republicans at the convention.
Donald J. Trump’s acceptance of his party’s nomination put an exclamation point on a triumphant week for a Republican Party that emerged from its convention confident and unified. At the same time, the Democratic Party is moving closer and closer to replacing President Biden on the ticket.
Jonathan Swan, who covers Mr. Trump’s presidential campaign, gives a behind-the-scenes look at the Republican National Convention, and Reid J. Epstein, who covers Mr. Biden’s re-election campaign, discusses where it stands as expectations are rising among Democrats that the president will reconsider his decision to stay in the race.
Guest:
Reid J. Epstein, a reporter covering politics for The New York Times.
Jonathan Swan, a reporter covering politics and Donald Trump’s presidential campaign for The New York Times.
Background reading:
Here are six takeaways from the Republican National Convention.
Mr. Trump ended the convention with a lengthy speech that started solemn and turned rambling. Read the transcript.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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