Trump praised at Republican convention, his initial public appearance following assassination attempt.

Former President Donald Trump made his first public appearance since an assassination attempt at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Monday. Trump arrived wearing a bandage over his right ear but seemed to be in good spirits as he was met with cheers and chants from the crowd.

Accompanied by his newly chosen vice presidential pick, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, Trump sat in the VIP box alongside close allies like Tucker Carlson and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Notably absent were Melania Trump and Ivanka Trump, who have not been active on the campaign trail.

Earlier in the day, Trump officially secured the necessary delegates to become the official GOP presidential nominee. The convention began just two days after an assassination attempt at one of Trump’s rallies, where one attendee was killed and two others were injured before the alleged gunman was shot dead.

The emotional energy of the convention has been heightened by the recent events, with a lineup of speakers including Marjorie Taylor Greene, rapper Amber Rose, and former running mate hopefuls like Tim Scott and Kristi Noem. Over 80 of Trump’s allies, donors, and lawmakers are expected to speak throughout the convention, with roughly 50,000 attendees anticipated in Milwaukee.

The first day of the convention featured speeches from a diverse group of speakers, including union president Sean O’Brien, who addressed criticisms for his controversial appearance. Despite the tensions, the convention is expected to proceed as scheduled, with a focus on Trump’s continued influence within the Republican Party.