With polls showing Trump’s support rising (Rasmussen poll showing Biden with a 1 point lead; Zogby poll showing Trump approval at 52%), the RNC continued its convention with more positive personal stories from many citizens and politicians. From Kellyanne Conway to Karen Pence to Sister Deirdre Byrne, the Trump campaign started the evening by highlighting a number of prominent women, celebrated the 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage which was championed by Republicans, and reaffirmed the Republican Party’s support for life.
The RNC also featured Coach Lou Holtz, the legendary Notre Dame football coach. Football has become a political issue with Michigan Governor Whitmer intervening to cancel the college football season at University of Michigan. In contrast, President Trump has called on colleges to open in person classes and play football. Southern states comprise the SEC and ACC which are proceeding with the football season, while Democrats and Biden double down on locking down the country. We don’t think it’s wise to be against football in Texas, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Then there is the Defund the Police movement. The RNC featured the endorsement of Trump by several police unions. In contrast to Biden, Trump has been outspoken in his support for the police and advocated using the national guard to quell the riots in Portland and Kenosha. Even CNN is now worried that the looting and riots are driving city dwellers to the Republican Party.
The RNC has also made a concerted effort to showcase Black Republicans. Today, Jack Brewer, former NFL star, spoke about school choice, judicial reform, and the importance of nuclear families. Brewer, a Democrat, commended Trump for the First Step Act. Brewer highlighted that the Republican Party is the Party of Lincoln and Frederick Douglas. Then Burgess Owens, another former NFL player and Republican congressional candidate from Utah, also gave his personal story and highlighted the greatness of America.
Vice President Mike Pence then gave a rousing speech in front of a live audience. It was nice to hear cheering crowds. Pence highlighted Trump’s optimism and love for America. He mentioned the states being impacted by the impending hurricane. Pence has been a particularly loyal and effective Vice President. Indeed, we believe that Pence helped Trump win in 2016 and may do so again in 2020. Pence has a reassuring voice and delivery style that conveys calm and strength. On a night with more riots and looting in Wisconsin and Minnesota, Pence was effective in drawing a contrast between Trump and Biden, between law and order v. unrest, between freedom and government tyranny.
We’ll have to see how the RNC Day 3 resonates with viewers and impacts the polls, but for now we see Day 3 as another successful day for Republicans.
NewEnglandPolitics.com 