President Joe Biden announces his readiness to hit the campaign trail next week, disregarding calls from a growing group of Democratic lawmakers to step down.
On the other hand, Republican officials, strategists, and activists are showing confidence after concluding their national convention in Milwaukee this week.
Donald Trump will host his first public campaign rally since surviving an assassination attempt, alongside his new running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, in Michigan on Saturday.
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Here’s the Latest:
Supporters gather in downtown Grand Rapids ahead of Trump’s rally
Trump supporters fill downtown Grand Rapids eagerly awaiting the former president’s address on Saturday evening.
Several streets were closed off for security reasons and lined with vendors selling food and merchandise. Among them, a vendor from North Carolina crafted shirts with “Trump Vance ’24,” referencing JD Vance, Trump’s running mate.
Mike Gaydos, who traveled from Indiana with his sons for the rally, expressed his support for Trump following a recent assassination attempt, despite not being a huge supporter previously.
The downtown area saw heightened police presence, with officers stationed throughout the blocks and others patrolling on horses and bicycles.
Biden infected with a COVID-19 variant responsible for US infections
Doctor Kevin O’Connor revealed that President Biden contracted a COVID-19 strain responsible for a third of new infections in the US.
Biden’s latest health report indicated steady improvement in symptoms with lingering cough and hoarseness, but clear lungs and normal vitals. He is receiving treatment at his Delaware beach home.
California Rep. Takano urges Biden to pass the torch to Harris
Rep. Mark Takano called on Biden to pass the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris and acknowledged the demands of a modern campaign now align better with Harris.
Takano emphasized his respect and love for Biden but stressed that the stakes are too high to risk failure.
No confirmation on Biden’s return to campaigning post COVID-19
Biden campaign spokesperson, Michael Tyler, mentioned that details on Biden’s campaign resumption will be shared once given the green light.
Biden had to pause his campaign after testing positive for COVID-19 while in Las Vegas and is currently recuperating in Delaware.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren advocates for Harris stepping up if Biden steps down
Sen. Elizabeth Warren expressed confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris to take Biden’s place if he decides to step back.
Warren highlighted the importance of unity within the party to counter Donald Trump and secure victory in November.
Changes in Secret Service protection for presidents over the years
Secret Service protection for presidents has evolved significantly with advanced technology and increased responsibilities over the years.
Current security measures are in place due to changing threats and historical incidents.
The Secret Service is making adjustments following an assassination attempt on former President Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania.
David Letterman to headline fundraiser with Biden
David Letterman will headline a fundraiser with President Joe Biden and Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, showcasing ongoing campaign efforts despite calls for Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race.
The event will take place on July 29 at Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, featuring Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and other celebrities to support the campaign.
Trump resumes campaign trail in Michigan
Donald Trump is set to host his first public campaign rally since the assassination attempt, alongside his running mate in Michigan.
The joint rally signifies unity and marks Trump’s commitment to being a president for all of America.
Majority of Democrats view Kamala Harris as a good president
Most Democrats believe Vice President Kamala Harris would make a good president, indicating growing support for her in case Biden steps down.
Harris has been a strong supporter of Biden despite internal and public pressure for her to take over the presidential nomination.
Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown joins calls for Biden to end campaign
Sen. Sherrod Brown and several members of Congress have suggested Biden should consider ending his campaign, reflecting concerns over his ability to win.
The plea comes amidst a competitive Senate race where Brown is facing a formidable opponent, emphasizing the need for a strong candidate.
Viewership peaks for Trump’s RNC speech
Former President Trump’s acceptance speech during the RNC garnered high viewership, particularly during the opening where he addressed the recent assassination attempt.
Despite strong initial engagement, viewership declined as Trump went off-script in the latter part of his lengthy speech.
Black lawmakers stand by Biden amid growing concerns
The Congressional Black Caucus continues to support President Biden, with varied levels of backing and some members expressing doubts about his candidacy.
Black lawmakers’ loyalty to Biden could play a crucial role as pressure mounts for Biden to reconsider his reelection bid.
Learn more about the evolving dynamics between Black lawmakers and the president: Black lawmakers’ relationship with the president
