Former presidential hopefuls set aside past criticisms to rally behind Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention on Tuesday. The event, marked by emotion and solidarity, saw Trump’s once-defeated rivals extol him as the unchallenged leader of the GOP, following an assassination attempt days earlier.
The second night of the convention emphasized Trump’s dominance and the party’s unified quest for victory. Ex-South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who had previously warned of Trump’s potential for chaos, offered her unreserved endorsement, symbolizing the end of their contentious primary battle.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once a contender for Trump’s mantle, urged the crowd to support Trump’s bid for a second term. His light-hearted jab at President Joe Biden drew rare laughter from Trump.
Grassroots supporters who once saw DeSantis as Trump’s successor watched as Trump shared the stage with his vice-presidential pick, JD Vance, highlighting DeSantis's fall from grace.
Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who had endured Trump’s personal attacks during the 2016 primaries, fervently praised Trump, showing his complete subservience to the former president.
The convention’s message was clear: the GOP is now unequivocally Trump’s party, united in its aim to secure his return to the presidency.
