“It’s pretty phenomenal,” Rep. Jason Smith of Missouri’s 8th Congressional District said Thursday, as he described attending the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump last Saturday, Smith said the energy from attendees was high.
“This is the most united I’ve seen the Republican Party,” he added.
Anticipation for Trump’s speech Thursday evening mounted.
“I think it’s going to be one of the most well-watched speeches,” remarked Smith, who was not available Friday to discuss the convention.
The first day of the RNC hosted unconventional speakers such as Sikh Republican Harmeet Dhillon offering an Ardas prayer and Amber Rose, an OnlyFans model and 2015 SlutWalk organizer who has since joined conservative politics.
“We’re a big tent party,” Smith assured, noting the convention also had a Jewish student and a Pentecostal minister take the stage.
He stated the Republican party was no longer the party of the country club. He noted this shift comes in concert with a focus on the working class. Smith applauded Trump’s vice presidential pick James David Vance as someone who understands the plight of this segment of Americans.
He recounted Vance grew up in a broken home in Appalachia.
“It’s so similar to the Ozarks,” Smith remarked concerning the poverty and drug problems.
He believes Vance’s addition to the ticket will be a huge boon with voters. Thursday evening, Trump took to the stage after opening performances from Kid Rock and Lee Greenwood.
The former president accepted the party’s nomination during a speech on issues ranging from illegal immigration to international relations.
“I think he’s got a good chance to win,” Smith said of Trump’s 2024 bid.
He remained unconcerned over Biden’s potential replacement as the Democratic nominee.
“Regardless of who’s on the ticket, Donald Trump wins,” Smith asserted.