Immigration Takes Centre Stage at Republican National Convention

The Republican National Convention focuses on immigration, a hallmark of Donald Trump's political brand. Speakers include families affected by crime linked to border policies. Amid the convention's activities, Trump appears after surviving an assassination attempt, with his rhetoric potentially starting a more subdued tone.

Immigration takes centre stage as the Republican National Convention resumes Tuesday, drawing attention to a pivotal element of former President Donald Trump's political legacy that initially won over the GOP base in 2015.

A notable portion of Tuesday night's speakers comprises families affected by violent crime, as part of a GOP effort to link crime to border policies. The lineup includes the family of Rachel Morin, a Maryland woman allegedly murdered by an El Salvadoran fugitive, often spotlighted by Trump during his campaign.

Trump's long-standing issue with immigration critiques the high number of migrants entering the U.S. illegally. However, unauthorized crossings have significantly declined after President Joe Biden implemented a rule suspending numerous asylum claims at the border.

At various rallies, Trump frequently cites examples of migrant-related crimes and attributes drug trafficking to migration, despite federal data indicating that most fentanyl smugglers are U.S. citizens. His rhetoric often extends to unfounded claims, such as migrants entering to vote in the 2024 election.

Following an assassination attempt last Saturday in Pennsylvania, Trump's attendance at the Milwaukee convention has sparked joy and gratitude. With a bandaged ear, he received rousing cheers at Monday's session but seemed more subdued.

Trump and his vice-presidential pick, Ohio Senator JD Vance, will appear nightly during the convention. Their first joint public appearance was Monday night. Vance is scheduled to speak Wednesday, with Trump headlining Thursday's closing night.

Lawrence Tabas, Pennsylvania Republican Party Chairman, expressed optimism that Trump's near-death experience will reset the national discourse, aligning with Trump's remarks on Thursday.

The Tuesday programme also features several Republican Senate candidates, including Bernie Moreno, Sam Brown, and Tim Sheehy. In a show of unity, Trump's GOP primary rivals, like Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, and Vivek Ramaswamy, will also speak. A senior Trump campaign adviser highlighted Haley's appearance as a sign of mended fences post-primary.

Monday's opening night saw Trump nominated to head the Republican ticket against Biden, greeted by enthusiastic cheers. The event marked Trump's consolidation of near-universal loyalty within the party, overcoming previous establishment and conservative critiques.

Trump appears ready to adopt a less aggressive tone, with his son, Donald Trump Jr., assisting in moderating his convention speech. Reflecting on a need for civil discourse, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp called for the media and the nation to move beyond political demonization, despite ongoing partisan tensions.

Pennsylvania delegate John Fredericks remains firm on immigration, advocating for the closure of borders and deportation of individuals residing illegally.

(With inputs from agencies.)