Trump Holds Rally Amidst Tight Security in North Carolina

Donald Trump conducted his first outdoor rally since surviving an attempted assassination. The rally, held at the North Carolina Aviation Museum, featured extensive security measures and is part of his counterprogramming to the Democratic National Convention. Trump is focusing on policy while competing against Vice President Kamala Harris.

Donald Trump held his first outdoor rally since narrowly surviving an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania last month.

Trump's podium at the North Carolina Aviation Museum & Hall of Fame was fortified with bulletproof glass, creating a protective wall. Additional security measures included stacked storage containers and rooftop snipers. The event, set against a backdrop of old aircraft and a large American flag, is part of Trump's counterprogramming to the Democratic National Convention currently happening in Chicago.

Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have criticized Trump at the Democratic convention, accusing him of narrow-mindedness and a fixation on crowd sizes. In contrast, Trump's campaign has focused on policy issues, especially with Vice President Kamala Harris now his primary opponent after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race.

Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, accompanied him at the rally. Trump is concentrating his efforts on battleground states, notably North Carolina, which he also visited last week for a campaign speech on the economy. North Carolina is crucial for the 2024 elections, having delivered a close victory for Trump previously. The rally saw Trump's plane conducting a flyover, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

Lisa Watts, a retired business owner from Hickory, North Carolina, expressed optimism about Trump's chances against Harris, doubting her readiness to lead the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)