Donald Trump has addressed the nation in his first speech after his near-death experience at a rally in Pennsylvania.
On Saturday (July 13), the former president of the United States was left ducking for cover after an attempted assassination took place at one of his presidential campaign rallies in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Approximately six minutes into his speech, multiple armed security forces were forced to storm the stage to shield the 78-year-old after he was struck in the ear by a bullet from the rifle of 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.
The suspect was shot and killed by FBI snipers after he was seen shooting at the Republican nominee as well as injuring other supporters in the crowd, killing one person.
Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed at the scene after covering his loved ones from the shooter, while David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, were left in critical condition and are being treated for their injuries.
Shortly after the attack, it was confirmed that the business tycoon was doing well and that he would still be making an appearance at the Republican National Convention that took place in Wisconsin.
On the last day of the prestigious event, he delivered a speech addressing the nation after what had been a terrifying few days for him.
"I stand before you this evening with a message of confidence, strength, and hope,” Trump started. "Together, we will launch a new era of safety, prosperity, and freedom for citizens of every race, religion, color, and creed.
“The discord and division in our society must be healed," he continued. "As Americans, we are bound together by a single fate and a shared destiny. We rise together. Or we fall apart."
He also added that he's running for president for all Americans.
Trump then addressed the incident directly, insinuating that it's a miracle he's still alive.
"The amazing thing is that prior to the shot, if I had not moved my head at that very last instant, the assassin’s bullet would have perfectly hit its mark, and I would not be here tonight," he said.
"None of us knows God’s plan, or where life’s adventure will take us. But if the events of last Saturday make anything clear, it is that every single moment we have on earth is a gift from God. We have to make the most of every day for the people and country we love."
Elsewhere, he also honored the late victim of the shooting, who was a firefighter, by holding his uniform and kissing the helmet.
"There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for others. This is the spirit that forged America in her darkest hours, and this is the love that will lead America back to the summit of human achievement and greatness," Trump went on.
"This is what we need. Despite such a heinous attack, we unite this evening, more determined than ever. Our resolve is unbroken and our purpose is unchanged, to deliver a government that serves the American people better than ever before," he added.
Trump went on to thank his family, in particular his wife Melania, for her "beautiful letter to America calling for national unity."
Trump also vowed to end Russia’s war on Ukraine, end inflation as well as end "every single international crisis that the current administration has created."
And of course, he also vowed to end the "illegal immigration crisis."
"Under our leadership, the United States will be respected again. No nation will question our power, no enemy will doubt our might," he continued. "Our borders will be totally secure. Our economy will soar. We will return law and order to our streets, patriotism to our schools, and importantly, we will restore peace, stability, and harmony all throughout the world."
He then called out for the support of the nation, promising to "bring back the American Dream."
"With great humility, I am asking you to be excited about the future of our country," Trump stated.
"We are Americans. Ambition is our heritage. Greatness is our birthright," he said, calling for "unity" once again. "But as long as our energies are spent fighting each other, our destiny will remain out of reach. We must instead take that energy and use it to realize our country’s true potential - and write our own thrilling chapter of the American Story.
"Tonight, I ask for your partnership, for your support, and I am humbly asking for your vote. Every day, I will strive to honor the trust you have placed in me, and I will never let you down," he concluded.
Following the conclusion of the convention, Trump and his named Vice President if elected, J.D. Vance, will head to their first rally together over the weekend, addressing voters in Michigan, before going to Middletown, Ohio, on Monday.
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