Trump Rallies in Michigan After Surviving Assassination Attempt

Former US President Donald Trump addresses a rally in Michigan's Grand Rapids after surviving an assassination attempt. Trump defends his actions for democracy while rejecting ties to Project 2025. His running mate, JD Vance, criticizes Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump sports a smaller bandage following the attack.

"I took a bullet for democracy," former US President Donald Trump proclaimed at a rally in Michigan's Grand Rapids on Saturday, marking his return to the campaign trail after being shot in an assassination attempt last week, according to The Hill. Trump's appearance followed his acceptance of the Republican nomination for president at the Republican National Convention.

Trump criticized Democrats for their portrayal of him, stating, "I don't want to know anything about it. But what they do is misinformation and disinformation, and they keep saying he's a threat to democracy." He defended his record, asserting, "What the hell did I do for democracy? Last week, I took a bullet for democracy." Trump also addressed Project 2025, described as an extreme plan he allegedly knows nothing about.

Democrats have sought to associate Trump with Project 2025, a conservative policy platform organized by the Heritage Platform, which includes former Trump administration officials, per The Hill. Trump and his campaign have denied any involvement. Addressing his supporters, he said, "I stand before you only by the grace of Almighty God," while sporting a smaller bandage on his right ear compared to the larger one worn at the convention earlier that week.

This rally was Trump's first since the attack in Pennsylvania where he was shot in the ear and escorted off stage by Secret Service agents. The incident resulted in the death of one attendee and the shooter, with two others injured, CNN reported. Supporters wore shirts depicting Trump holding his fist in the air, urging them to "fight" as he was escorted away post-shooting.

Outside the Michigan venue, merchandise tables sold shirts to attendees waiting in line. At the same rally, Republican Vice Presidential nominee JD Vance criticized US Vice President Kamala Harris, questioning her achievements and defending his own patriotism. "There's some bad news actually, Vice President Kamala Harris, she doesn't like me," Vance declared. He condemned Harris's remarks questioning his loyalty, citing his service in the Marine Corps and business achievements, while challenging Harris's contributions.

Vance's rally appearance marked his debut with Trump since being named his running mate. His comments followed Harris's criticism earlier in the week over his stance on the 2020 election results, likening him to former Vice President Mike Pence. In a video released Wednesday, Harris asserted that Vance would merely endorse Trump's extreme agenda, as reported by ABC News. At the rally, Vance refuted media claims labeling Trump and the GOP agenda as "radical" and "dangerous," receiving a warm reception in Michigan, according to CNN. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)