Former President Donald Trump held a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, his first since President Joe Biden announced he was dropping out of the 2024 race. At the event, Trump turned his attacks towards Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her “much more radical” than Biden. His speech, delivered shortly before Biden’s own announcement, focused mainly on criticizing Harris.
During the 90-minute speech, Trump labeled Harris as “the most incompetent and far-left vice president in American history,” a shift from his usual focus on Biden. He accused Harris of exacerbating issues such as inflation, crime, and problems at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Trump claimed that Harris’ handling of border security was “completely and totally disqualifying” for her presidential candidacy, insisting she should not be allowed to run.
Joe Biden and Kamala Harris
Trump also discussed his change in demeanor since surviving an assassination attempt on July 13. He admitted to abandoning the “softer side” he showcased at the Republican National Convention. Trump told the audience that dealing with political opponents required a tougher approach, stating, “You can’t be too nice” when confronting what he described as “very dangerous people.”
In addition to attacking Harris’ policies, Trump criticized her tenure as San Francisco’s district attorney, alleging she was not tough enough on crime. He lamented the current state of San Francisco, contrasting it with its past reputation as a great city. Trump’s comments aimed to highlight Harris’ perceived failures in managing crime and maintaining urban livability.
Earlier that day, Vice President Harris had criticized Trump during a speech in Indiana. Addressing members of the historically Black sorority Zeta Phi Beta, Harris warned that Trump would “return America to a dark past.” She continued her critique the following day in Wisconsin, likening Trump to the “predators,” “fraudsters,” and “cheaters” she prosecuted in California, asserting she was familiar with Trump’s “type.”
