Molly Ball, WSJ reporter, discusses Trump's takeover of the Republican Party at the RNC. Topics include Trump's unity call, party transformation, and iconic fashion choices at the convention.
Trump successfully reshaped the GOP in his image, marking a remarkable political rebirth.
The RNC highlighted Trump's dual persona of unity and assertiveness, showcasing his control over the party.
Deep dives
Republican National Convention Reactions
The Republican National Convention was described as jubilant, blessed, and characterized by strong support for Trump. The convention showcased a unified party devoted to Trump, reshaping itself in his image. Despite past skepticism towards Trump, this convention portrayed a party energized by the prospect of victory and recent events that reinforced their commitment to him, creating a sense of divine intervention and unity.
Trump's Political Speech Transformation
During his speech, Trump aimed to present a new persona as a unifier, appearing softer and expressing a need for healing in America. However, the speech gradually shifted back to a familiar assertive style as he addressed ongoing issues and personal matters. The convention emphasized Trump's evolution into a figure of strength and benevolence, highlighting a contrast between his narratives of unity and demands for the end of investigations against him.
Trump's Campaign Momentum and Party Realignment
Analysis of Trump's campaign indicates a shift in momentum in his favor, buoyed by Biden's debate performance shortcomings and recent events like the assassination attempt. The campaign exudes confidence, discussing potential landslide victories and targeting states not traditionally Republican. Trump's success in regaining control of the party showcases a remarkable political comeback, reshaping the Republican Party's identity and policies under an America-first and Trump-centric ideology.
The Republican National Convention came to a close Thursday night with a speech by presidential nominee Donald Trump that called for unity while also returning to familiar rhetoric. WSJ’s Molly Ball says it’s a remarkable turnaround for a candidate who was once an outsider, and has now remade the party in his image. Plus, Jessica Mendoza and Jacob Gallagher give the convention a fit check.