22:21 First campaign appearance of Trump since Vice President Vance's attack
A little over a week after the attack on him, former US President Donald Trump held his first campaign appearance on Saturday in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he will appear with his vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance. Trump was nominated as the presidential candidate for the Republicans at the US Republican Party convention and received a triumphant reception.
21:50 Union Foreign Spokesperson Hardt: We need to adjust to new RepublicansThe foreign policy spokesperson of the Union faction, Jürgen Hardt, expects that the Republicans, under their presidential candidate, will realign ideologically - regardless of the November election result. Trump's campaign promises were described as a "wonderful surprise."
21:23 While withdrawal calls are heating up: Harris visits ice cream parlor of Tyra BanksWhile calls for Biden to withdraw as a candidate for the US elections in November are growing louder even from within the Democratic ranks (see entry 20:56), his potential successor Kamala Harris invited her nieces for ice cream. In the US capital Washington DC, former supermodel Tyra Banks opened a pop-up ice cream parlor "Smize&Dream." Together with her two nieces, the US Vice President enjoyed an ice cream - served personally by the former model.
20:56 Democrats openly demand Biden's withdrawalMore and more Democrats are urging US President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential candidacy for the US elections in November. In the past hours, Representatives Betty McCollum of Minnesota, Kathy Castor of Florida, Zoe Lofgren of California, and Greg Landsman have issued statements calling on Biden to retire. Shortly before that, Democrats Jared Huffman of California, Mark Veasey of Texas, Chuy Garcia of Illinois, and Mark Pocan of Wisconsin - Democratic representatives in the US House of Representatives - had also expressed their support for Biden to pass the torch to a new generation of democratic leaders in an open letter.
20:18 Biden plans to be back on campaign trail next weekUS President Joe Biden announced that he would be back on the campaign trail next week and would win the November election. In the past, Biden had paused due to Corona symptoms. In recent days, the number of Democratic Party members calling on the 81-year-old to retire and make way for a more promising candidate had increased.
19:33 CNN analyst: These Democrats could beat TrumpIf US President Joe Biden were to decide to withdraw, the Democrats have a women's duo in the party that could still beat the likely Republican candidate Donald Trump. That's what Julian Zelizer, political analyst for CNN and Princeton Professor, writes in a commentary on CNN. Zelizer believes that Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate and Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, as her vice presidential candidate, have the best chances of leading the party through this crisis. US Vice President Kamala Harris is being discussed as a top contender for the Biden succession in the US presidential elections in November. Whitmer is one of the rising figures in the Democratic Party. Furthermore, Zelizer sees the potential for a campaign by these two Democrats to excite voters and achieve a historic result.
18:17 Report: Biden Family Discusses Withdrawal Scenarios
Members of the family of US President Joe Biden have reportedly discussed withdrawal scenarios from his campaign. According to NBC News, citing two people familiar with the discussions, the talks revolved around Biden's exit options. The sources quoted by NBC News describe two conditions for a potential withdrawal plan that were the general consensus during the talks: If Biden decides to step down, he must put the party in the best position to defeat former President Donald Trump. It is also crucial that Biden can leave the office with dignity. NBC News reports that Biden's withdrawal, as well as his family's consideration of potential exit strategies, is a new development.
17:03 Could Kamala Harris Beat Trump?
Pressure on US President Joe Biden from within his own party is growing. According to polls, his Vice President Kamala Harris has better chances against Republican and challenger Donald Trump. But does she have what it takes to be the most powerful woman in the world?
16:23 Press Secretary: Biden Takes Democratic Concerns Seriously
According to his team, US President Joe Biden will return to the campaign trail next week after isolating at his home in Delaware due to mild COVID-19 symptoms. Jen O'Malley Dillon, the head of his campaign team, made the announcement on MSNBC. "He's absolutely in it," she said in an interview. The 81-year-old is taking the concerns of some Democrats seriously but is determined to fight for a second term. In the past few days, pressure on Biden has increased. Several Democratic representatives publicly questioned his physical and mental fitness for a candidacy and his chances of winning. Biden has withdrawn from public view due to a COVID-19 infection.
15:38 Kamala Harris Counters Trump's Unity Promise
In his speech at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Presidential candidate Donald Trump aims to unite the deeply divided American population. In response, Vice President Kamala Harris made clear statements on social media. In a post on X, the Democrat wrote: "If you claim to stand for unity, you must do more than just use the word." Harris wrote that he couldn't just claim to stand for unity of the USA if he followed an agenda that deprived entire groups of Americans of their fundamental freedoms, opportunities, and dignity.
14:33 Media Report: Biden Considering Exit from the Race
According to media reports, ailing US President Joe Biden is now considering withdrawing from the race for the White House. The "New York Times" cites several sources in Biden's circle, who indicate that the 81-year-old is beginning to accept that he may not win the election against his rival Donald Trump in November. "Reality is setting in," the "New York Times" quotes from Biden's circle. The source is not surprised if Biden soon supports Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate instead. However, another person close to the President emphasized that he has not yet made a decision.
13:50 Attentater informed themselves about other school shooters
The Trump attentater was informed on the internet about the arrest of a teenager who had shot and killed four students at a Highschool in Michigan in 2021, and about the charges against his parents. This was reported by CNN, citing FBI and Secret Service officials.
13:17 Hulk Hogan pays tribute to "Gladiator" Trump in bizarre speech
As a professional wrestler, Hulk Hogan became a folk hero in the USA in the 80s and 90s. Advertising and film appearances followed. Now, Hulk Hogan effectively enters the Presidential campaign. At the Republican Party convention, he pays tribute to Donald Trump in a wrestling-style manner.
12:36 Spahn praises Trump's foreign policy positions
Union Deputy Faction Leader Jens Spahn finds praiseworthy words for Trump's foreign policy positions. Spahn mentioned on MDR approximately Trump's stance on containing China and the existence of Israel. The former Federal Health Minister also commented on Trump's announced peace initiative for Ukraine. He said Europeans should "be part of these talks" and should not be content with the role of spectators. Spahn, who was observing the Republican Party convention, emphasized to the Redaktionsnetzwerk that Trump "is often right in foreign policy." "Our Iran policy was wrong in retrospect, his was right. Our policy on Nord Stream 2 was wrong, he warned us." Trump has been calling "for years" that Europe should do more for its security, said Spahn. "We have kept our eyes closed for too long."
11:52 Communication expert: Trump strikes "unusual tones"
With over 90 minutes, Donald Trump delivers the longest nomination speech to date. This is not just "typical campaigning with a ton of fake news," says communication expert Christian Galvez, but also "unusual tones" for the Republicans:
11:26 Trump's performance reminds security experts of "Life of Brian"
According to security expert Christian Mölling, the content of the speeches at the US Republican Party convention is not the most important thing. "When you see that people really cling to that band. [...] That's like in Life of Brian," he says in the "Stern" podcast "The Situation." "There's this scene at the end where everyone is chasing after someone's sandal, who through some kind of coincidence has become an icon, an object of veneration. It doesn't matter if it's a sandal or a band: Trump is being deified and he is also deifying himself, and that's why the content, I believe, is totally banal."
10:55 Politologist on Trump's calculation: "Arithmetic carries immense risk"
How surprising or expected was Trump's speech at the Republican Party convention? Thomas Jäger takes a look at the potential consequences of Trump's announcements regarding Ukraine and other US allies:
10:19 Trump accuses Biden of causing more damage than "ten worst presidents" combined
Originally, Trump did not want to mention Biden in his speech, but he deviated from his script again. "The damage he has caused to this country is unimaginable," Trump said about the incumbent President. When the balance of "the ten worst presidents" in US history is considered, the damage caused by Biden is not as great.
09:51 When Trump deviates from the script, things get interesting with him
In Milwaukee, Trump spoke about the assassination attempt against him; he looked tired but was later celebrated by delegates and didn't always stick to his script - "old tunes come through." NTV reporter Hanna Klouth shares her impressions of the nomination speech of the now official Presidential candidate of the Republicans:
09:15 Trump makes over 20 false claims in his speech
CNN counts over 20 false claims in Trump's convention speech. Many of these were previously made by the Presidential candidate, some for years. The topics affected include the economy, immigration, crime, foreign policy, and elections. The statement that he left the Biden administration a world at peace is deemed "absurd" by the network. Trump also repeated the allegation of election fraud against the Democrats - even though, according to the report, it was not in the speech manuscript.
08:45 Trump obfuscates the Taiwan issue in his speech
China was mentioned only once in Trump's speech in a national security context. He said that the country surrounds Taiwan - without stating whether his administration would come to Taiwan's aid if China attacks it in the event of his re-election. Trump has so far refused to be pinned down on this issue.
08:22 Trump falsely accuses Biden of record inflation
After the US inflation rate reached 9.1% in June 2022, the highest level since 1981, it has since dropped to 3%. CNN reports. Trump's accusation of record inflation under US President Biden is therefore not correct. The record was actually 23.7% in 1920.
08:01 Trump's first action will be to close the border
According to his own statements, Trump plans to close the border as one of his first actions upon returning to the White House. "I will end the crisis of illegal immigration by closing our border and completing the wall," Trump confirmed in his speech at the Republican convention. "We must stop the invasion of our country."
07:20 Trump exaggerates the fight against IS in Syria
Trump also exaggerated in his statement about IS in Syria. The New York Times explains. Trump claimed that under his leadership, the US had completely defeated the terrorist organization within two months. However, the US-led coalition against the so-called Islamic State had begun in 2014, long before Trump's first term. Trump continued the strategy of his predecessor Barack Obama, the Times clarifies. The last territories of the IS were lost in March 2019, not two months, but two years after Trump took office.
06:51 Trump lies about abandoned military equipment in Afghanistan
Trump's false claim about the US leaving $85 billion worth of military equipment in Afghanistan was also repeated in his speech. According to US media, this refers to the total amount that Congress provided for a support fund for Afghan security forces during the war. The abandoned military equipment was estimated by the Defense Department to be worth around $7.1 billion, according to CNN.
06:31 Trump insults Migrants indirectly as "Garbage"Trump used his speech to incite against migrants and employed dehumanizing language. "They come from all over," said the 78-year-old. "We have become a dumping ground for the rest of the world - and they laugh at us. They think we're stupid." Trump spoke for several minutes about immigration. During his speech, he repeated statements from campaign rallies. He claimed that mostly criminals were coming over the Southern border and people from "Mental Institutions."
06:18 Trump speaks for 95 minutesDonald Trump's nomination speech ends after a total of 95 minutes. The 78-year-old presents himself with his family on stage at the end. Melania Trump, his wife, stands by the side of the Republican presidential candidate in Milwaukee, having been absent from important campaign events, such as the TV debate between her husband and President Biden.
05:49 Trump: I save DemocracyDonald Trump calls for political disagreements not to be "demonized." The USA should not "criminalize dissent," he says in his nomination speech at the Republican National Convention. The 78-year-old does not see himself as a threat to democracy but rather as its "savior." Trump is involved in various legal disputes. He frequently portrays himself publicly as a victim of a politically motivated "witch hunt." He still refuses to acknowledge his loss in the 2020 presidential election against Joe Biden.
05:06 Trump remembers attack victim and kisses firefighter's helmetAt his nomination speech in Milwaukee, Donald Trump remembers the victim of the attack on him. Afterward, Trump kisses the helmet of the firefighter who was shot at the campaign event in the US state of Pennsylvania. The firefighter's jacket was also on display on stage. "He was incredible," says Trump. The 50-year-old reportedly shielded his wife and daughter from the bullets when the shooter opened fire. He was fatally shot, and two others were severely injured.
04:53 Trump tells story of the attackWith a softer and slower voice than usual, Donald Trump tells the story of the attack on him in Milwaukee - "for the first and only time," he explains. Because it's too painful to tell it again, he says. "I had God on my side. (...) I shouldn't be here tonight." At this point, the audience starts shouting, "But, you should be here!"
04:46 Trump begins nomination speech in conciliatory toneDonald Trump begins his speech at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in a conciliatory tone: "I am running to be President for all of America, not just for half of America. There is no victory if you win for half of America."
04:08 Carlson: Ukraine-Aid "Middle Finger" to AmericansTucker Carlson, the Putin-friendly talk show host, criticized US aid for the Ukraine attacked by Russia at the Republican Party convention. "You don't see our president using our military to protect our country or the lives of our citizens - no, that's for Ukraine," the former Fox News moderator said in Milwaukee. "That's a middle finger to every American." Carlson is known for spreading false information and conspiracy theories. Last year, the ardent Trump supporter was fired from the conservative US network Fox News. In early February, he traveled to Moscow for an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the interview, Putin spoke unchecked for over two hours about Russia and Ukraine. The Ukraine then sarcastically honored Carlson as their "Kreml employee of the month".
03:35 Trump's Daughter-in-Law: Attack changed TrumpLara Trump, Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee, observed a change in her father-in-law. The attack on Saturday reportedly led Trump to rework his upcoming speech and emphasize unity, according to Lara Trump, wife of Trump's son Eric Trump: "I don't think you can go through what he went through on Saturday without it having an effect." Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris finds Trump's call for unity unconvincing. "We're too busy watching what you do and what you say," Harris said at a campaign event.
02:27 Trump Advisor: Biden's withdrawal would have little impact on Trump's campaignAccording to a high-ranking advisor to Donald Trump, a withdrawal of US President Joe Biden from the presidential race would not significantly affect Trump's campaign. "Whether it's Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, or any other radical liberal Democrat, they're all responsible for the destruction of our economy and the disintegration of our borders," Jason Miller, one of Trump's closest advisors, said on the sidelines of the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee. In Trump's speech in a few hours, it would not be "about Joe Biden," but "about President Trump and his vision for the country," Miller added.
01:36 Pelosi believes Biden is close to dropping outAccording to a report by the "Washington Post", Nancy Pelosi, a powerful Democrat, also believes that President Joe Biden could be convinced to withdraw from the US presidential race soon. The newspaper cites three unnamed Democratic officials close to Pelosi. The former Speaker of the House is a close confidant of Biden. After his disastrous TV debate performance against Trump, Pelosi reportedly acts as a go-between for the concerned party base and the White House.
00:43 Scholz considers US presidential election outcome open
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the SPD still sees the outcome of the US presidential election as open. It's "a little bold and risky" to be certain now how this election will turn out, Scholz said at a press conference to conclude the European Council meeting in Britain. He cited the previous German federal election as an example, where he won the chancellorship for the SPD on the last meters despite being behind the Union in the polls at one point. As a good democrat, Scholz emphasized, "elections only take place when they have taken place."
23:28 Insider: Biden considering dropping out of race
US President Joe Biden is reportedly considering dropping out of the presidential race according to inside sources. Biden is taking the calls for him to withdraw as a candidate seriously, say trusted individuals. Several Democratic party insiders believe an exit is just a matter of time. "I'm certain he's really thinking about it," says one anonymous insider. "He's thinking very seriously about it." Another Democratic insider adds, Biden has recognized the signs of the times. "It feels like it's a matter of when, not if," the insider says. Quentin Fulks, Biden's deputy campaign manager, however, stated the president has made his decision: "Joe Biden has said that he is running for the office of President of the United States. Our campaign is moving forward."
23:08 White House announces meeting between Biden and Netanyahu next week
US President Joe Biden is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to Washington next week. "We expect that the two will have an opportunity to meet while Minister Prime Minister Netanyahu is in the city," says the spokesperson for the US National Security Council, John Kirby. He could not, however, specify "at this point" how such a meeting would look. Netanyahu is scheduled to fly to Washington on Monday to deliver a speech before the US Congress on Wednesday. Israeli media reported on a planned meeting with Biden. Whether such a meeting will take place, however, depends on the progress of Netanyahu's Corona infection, according to Kirby. "We need to ensure that the President's health and recovery remain a priority," the spokesperson says.
22:14 Doctor: Biden suffering from mild Corona symptoms
US President Joe Biden is still experiencing mild respiratory symptoms due to his Coronavirus infection according to his doctor. Biden does not have a fever, Kevin O'Connor reports. The president is being treated with the medication Paxlovid. The White House announced on Wednesday that Biden had tested positive for Coronavirus during a trip to Las Vegas. Biden has canceled an appearance in the US state of Nevada. He is isolating at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
21:37 Biden campaign team rules out other candidacy scenarios
The campaign team of US President Joe Biden is not considering scenarios where Biden does not run as the Democratic Party's top candidate for the White House. "Our campaign is not running through scenarios where President Biden is not at the head of the candidate list," says Biden's deputy campaign manager Quentin Fulks at a press conference in Milwaukee. Biden himself has repeatedly emphasized that he will remain in the race and will not withdraw his candidacy.
20:53 Weber: "A cascade of events is about to begin" : The West intends to station US weapons in Germany, the Kremlin responds with atomic threats. The constant back-and-forth could escalate, according to security expert Joachim Weber. Additionally, Trump could once again become a political ally of Russia - not good news for Europe.
20:07 Report: Trump has insulted or attacked 38 percent of US population : An unofficial list published by the "Washington Post" shows that former President Donald Trump has insulted or attacked people in speeches at rallies, on social media, and in interviews in cities and states that make up nearly 38 percent of the American population. Trump's statements could therefore affect more than 126 million people who are proud of their hometowns. Milwaukee, the host city of the Republican Convention, is reportedly referred to by Trump as "a terrible city."
19:33 Report: Melania Trump missing in Milwaukee: Where is the Ex-First Lady? : Melania Trump is not on the speaker list for the final evening of the Republican Convention. This was reported by trusted sources. There had been many speculations about whether the former First Lady would make an appearance at her husband's party in Milwaukee. The absence of Melania Trump on the speaker list does not necessarily mean that she will not appear on stage with Trump. In the past evenings, Trump has sat alone on the stage in the hall and watched, among other things, the speech of his vice presidential candidate's wife, J.D. Vance. Melania Trump's absence, while Usha Vance supported her husband on stage, could once again fuel rumors about the state of the Trump marriage.
You can read about all previous developments [here].
- Despite calls for withdrawal within the Democratic ranks, Vice President Kamala Harris visited a Washington D.C. ice cream parlor, indicating her potential continued involvement in the 2024 US Presidency Election.
- Trump's campaign promises were described as a "wonderful surprise" by Union foreign policy spokesperson Jürgen Hardt, who expects realignment among the Republicans, regardless of the November election result.
- In a possible scenario for the 2024 US Presidency Election, CNN political analyst Julian Zelizer suggests that Democrats Kamala Harris and Gretchen Whitmer could pose a strong challenge to Donald Trump, with Whitmer being a rising figure in the Democratic Party.
- Former US President Donald Trump received a triumphant reception during his campaign appearance in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he was nominated as the presidential candidate for the Republicans at the US Republican Party convention.
- Despite concerns from some Democrats, President Joe Biden announced that he would return to the campaign trail next week and expressed his determination to win the November election.
- Attempts to assess Donald Trump's political future have been made by US Intelligence Agencies, which have reportedly discussed potential exit scenarios within his family circle, with the condition that Biden must leave the office with dignity and ensure the Democratic Party's best chance to defeat Trump in the November election.
