MILWAUKEE (AP) — Former President Donald Trump’s toned down acceptance of the Republican nomination on Thursday night was a relief for conservative voters who were put off by his previous rhetoric, according to Dave Struthers, a 57-year-old farmer from Collins, Iowa.
Struthers watched Trump’s speech in his farmhouse basement and noted, “He’s much improved. It’s more of a conversation with the American people, rather than yelling at them.”
Trump, known for his divisive comments, spoke in a quieter, more relaxed tone at the beginning of his speech in Milwaukee, following an assassination attempt on him, and called for an end to discord in national politics.
Despite this, Trump’s speech took a familiar turn as it progressed, with attacks on Democrats, claims about murder rates in other countries, and other contentious statements.
This shift in tone caught the attention of Erich Hazen, a Democrat from Milwaukee, who is now considering voting for Trump, a move that surprised even himself.
Support for Trump’s softer tone was observed by Jennifer Ryan Garnica, a store owner in California, who found the change in rhetoric much needed in the current divided political climate.
However, not everyone was swayed by Trump’s speech. John Frank, a self-described libertarian from Milwaukee, felt that there was no significant change in Trump’s tone after the assassination attempt.
Despite mixed reactions, attendees within the convention’s secure zone showed unity as they watched Trump speak, and bar manager Max Bradshaw noted a sense of togetherness among staff at the pub.
Outside the pub, Liam Stanton, a Bernie Sanders supporter, expressed disillusionment with both major political parties but indicated he plans to vote for Trump in the upcoming election.
Overall, opinions on Trump’s speech varied, with some finding it inspiring and others feeling underwhelmed.
Johnson reported from Seattle. Jeff Roberson in St. Charles, Missouri; Ashley Landis in Seal Beach, California; and Charlie Neibergall in Collins, Iowa, contributed.
