Nearer to World War III Than Ever Before

Former President Donald Trump addressed a gathering of National Guard officers during the National Guard Association of the United States’ annual meeting in Detroit on Monday, warning that the world is facing unprecedented threats. He positioned himself as the only candidate capable of combating these dangers.

In his remarks, Trump stated, “I don’t think we’ve ever been closer to World War III than we are now.” He expressed his pride in having served as their commander-in-chief and criticized Vice President Kamala Harris, characterizing her as an advocate for “endless war” on the same day she defended President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Trump pledged that if elected, he would put an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, asserting he is the only contender committed to this cause. He also emphasized the need for NATO countries to contribute more financially, labeling the current U.S. expenses to defend Europe as the “steal of the century.”

Additionally, Trump addressed perceived domestic threats, alleging that his political opponents have weaponized government institutions to target him and others, alluding to his own legal troubles, including 34 felony charges. He reiterated his promise to secure the Southern border, referring to illegal immigration as an “invasion.”

In response to Trump’s statements, Ammar Moussa, Harris for President Rapid Response Director, commented that Trump cannot be trusted with national security. He asserted that Vice President Harris is a proven leader who will use her expertise to protect America and support allies globally.

Trump’s visit to Detroit marks his seventh trip to Michigan this year as he competes against Harris, the Democratic nominee, in a state where polling shows Harris holds a nearly three-percentage point lead over him.

His last campaign rally in Michigan took place in Grand Rapids, shortly after an assassination attempt against him. Since then, Trump and his running mate, U.S. Senator JD Vance of Ohio, have participated in smaller events with law enforcement in Michigan.

One notable supporter, musician Kid Rock, wore a “Keep America Great” hat while introducing Trump. Additionally, former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard, who used to be a Democrat, also endorsed Trump during the event.

The venue for Trump’s speech, Huntington Place, also hosted supporters four years earlier when they protested the counting of Detroit’s absentee ballots. This year, Trump’s supporters are mobilizing again to serve as election workers and challengers.

After his speech, Trump made a stop at his campaign office in Roseville, Macomb County, where he was met with applause from volunteers, and his supporters lined the street to chant his name. During his visit, he reminisced about the strong race in 2016 and claimed that enthusiasm for his candidacy is even greater this time around.

Trump questioned the legitimacy of Harris’s recent entry into the race, suggesting skepticism regarding her acceptance of the Democratic nomination. He did not respond to a question about whether he would accept the election results.

While criticizing Harris, Trump reiterated his vow to “make America greater than ever before.” He encouraged his volunteers to enjoy pizza from the campaign and mentioned that everyone could potentially visit Mar-a-Lago if he wins the upcoming election.

Before heading to Michigan, Trump participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, marking three years since a terrorist attack in Kabul resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and many Afghan civilians. He attempted to associate Harris with the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal but it remains uncertain how much influence Harris had on those decisions.

Trump claimed that the withdrawal had led to “humiliation in Afghanistan” and posed a threat to U.S. credibility on the global stage. In a statement honoring the service members lost in the attack, Harris affirmed her support for Biden’s decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan, asserting that the administration has shown it can combat terrorism effectively without deploying soldiers into conflict zones.

President Biden addressed the National Guard officers via video, expressing gratitude for their service. He had earlier withdrawn from the presidential race and endorsed Harris after facing criticism for a poor debate performance. This shift left the Trump campaign to adapt to a new opponent in the presidential race.

Source: Detroit Free Press