Former President Donald Trump struck an unusually somber tone during his Thursday night speech, prompting mixed reactions from Americans who criticized it as “low-energy” and likened it to a high schooler reading directly from notes.
Trump addressed the crowd, discussing the recent assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, that nearly claimed his life. At one point, a reflective Trump thanked God, who he said was watching over him, and kissed the fire helmet of the man slain at his rally. “I’m not supposed to be here tonight,” Trump told his supporters, who responded with, “Yes you are!”
Trump continued, “I stand before you in this arena only by the grace of Almighty God. Watching the reports over the last few days, many people say it was a providential moment. It probably was.” However, Trump’s tone, much like that of his vice presidential pick, J.D. Vance, left both supporters and critics baffled.
“This is strange,” noted Lincoln Project co-founder Mike Madrid. “It’s creepy,” retorted @MsMalarkey24 on social media. “I can’t tell you a single thing that is more creepy than whatever this is,” added @lalalitalive.
“So sleepy,” remarked @DevonScanlon326. “The media criticizes Joe Biden’s speeches, but this is terrible,” wrote Democratic strategist Chris D. Jackson. “Low energy and it sounds like a high schooler reading.” He added, “But I’m sure they will all give it rave reviews.” “False. This is a middle school at best,” jabbed @MarioNicolaiEsq.
“Feels like church revival crossed with high school pep rally,” commented @MooDogPress. “Religious overtones, cheering, and with gauze hiding his ear, he is the one ‘saving democracy.'” Conservative commentator Bill Kristol simply wrote, “Trump’s too old.”
The speech’s subdued nature stood in stark contrast to Trump’s typically high-energy rallies, leaving many to wonder about the shift in tone. Whether a calculated move or an unintentional deviation, Trump’s latest address has added another layer of intrigue to his ongoing political narrative.