"In order to make America great and glorious again, I am announcing tonight my candidacy for President of the United States." With these words, Donald Trump officially confirmed his candidacy for the presidential race for the White House in 2024 before an expectant and ecstatic crowd at Mar-a-Lago. In a calm speech, without criticizing his possible rivals or the Republican Party -not even the outcome of the 2020 elections-, the former president focused his message on presenting himself as the man who will solve the problems of the United States.
"America's comeback starts right now," Trump touted. He immediately began to detail the reasons that have convinced him to take this step: "I am running because I believe that the world has not yet seen the true glory of what this nation can be. To that end, "We will heal our divisions and bring our people back together through incredible success. We will shatter the forces of tyranny, and unleash the glories of freedom for ourselves and our children, and for generations yet to come. America's golden age is just ahead."
"The golden age of the U.S. is upon us."
During his speech, Trump returned to his classic issues, such as crime, drugs and illegal immigration, which have worsened considerably under the Biden Administration. This time, however, he added new issues he will work on, such as term limits in Congress, regulation of stock trading for federal lawmakers, and a ban on lobbying for former Cabinet and congressional members.
The former president also dedicated a special chapter to the withdrawal from Afghanistan ordered by Joe Biden. Trump harshly lamented that this action - and the manner in which it was carried out - made the United States the "laughing stock" of the world. "Perhaps the most shameful moment in our country's history. We lost lives, left Americans behind and gave up $85 billion of the best military equipment in the entire world," Trump denounced.
"Biden could possibly get us into World War III."
He also attacked the current president for aiding Ukraine in its war against Russia. "Unlike Biden, who could possibly get us into World War III, something that could seriously happen, I will keep America out of foolish and unnecessary foreign wars," he pledged.
He also had time to air his traditional grievances, albeit very briefly on this occasion. In doing so, he alleged that China interfered in the 2020 election, attacked Christopher Steele and his discredited dossier, criticized the FBI raid on his home, and complained about subpoenas of family members. In addition, he lamented that the media did not cover the success rate of his endorsements in Congress in 2022. And, of course, he again rallied against absentee voting.
Surrounded by his family
The event was attended by Trump's family members, including his wife Melania, his children Lara, Eric and Barron, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner. Trump supporters such as Ric Grenell, Roger Stone, Tony Bobulinski, Mike Lindell, Jason Miller, Boris Epshtyn and Devin Nunes could also be seen.
Ivanka Trump, for her part, declined to get involved in her father's campaign, claiming she wants to focus on her family and children. "I love my father very much, but this time, I choose to prioritize my young children and the private life we are creating as a family."
