Former President Trump urged Christians to vote at a Turning Point Action event on Friday, suggesting their votes in November could fix “everything” permanently. “Christians, just this once, get out and vote,” Trump declared to a cheering audience in West Palm Beach, Fla.
“You won’t have to do it again. Four more years and it will be fixed, fine. My beautiful Christians, you won’t need to vote anymore,” he continued. “I love you Christians. I’m a Christian. I love you, so get out and vote. In four years, you won’t need to vote again; we’ll have it fixed so well,” Trump emphasized.
Former President Trump
Trump’s statements highlight the importance of mobilizing fervent supporters in what is anticipated to be a closely contested election.
The race has shifted dramatically with Vice President Harris’s sudden emergence as the likely Democratic presidential nominee. President Biden, facing mounting pressure, exited the race on Sunday and endorsed Harris.
Democrats have since rallied around Harris, showing increased enthusiasm for her candidacy. Harris, 59, is over two decades younger than Biden, effectively countering the GOP’s main criticism of the Biden ticket.
Trump, 78, has also seen GOP unity around his candidacy, especially after a failed assassination attempt at a rally on July 13. The incident ended with Trump raising a defiant fist as blood streaked his face from his ear.
Previously, the Trump-Biden race was marked by a lack of enthusiasm, leading to speculation about lower voter turnout compared to past elections.
It remains uncertain if turnout will now rise, but a New York Times/Siena College poll this week showed increasing support for both Harris and Trump. The poll indicated a decline in the number of voters who dislike both candidates.
Trump appeared to be a strong favorite against Biden, but post-Biden exit polls suggest a tightening race. Fox News polling released Friday showed Harris tied with Trump in Pennsylvania and Michigan, and trailing Trump by one point in Wisconsin.
A key factor to watch is whether Harris and Trump will debate in the coming months. Harris first aims to secure the Democratic nomination at the Democratic National Convention, having already garnered enough delegate support. No other contenders have emerged, indicating the party’s unity behind her.
Trump was set to debate Biden again in September, but it’s unclear if he will maintain those plans with Harris. Trump has suggested moving the debate from ABC to Fox News since Harris’s entry. The first debate between Trump and Biden altered the race, highlighting concerns about Biden’s age as he struggled during the performance.
