In a campaign rally on Saturday, July 20, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Donald Trump asserted that the Afghanistan crisis would not have occurred if he had been president. He criticized Joe Biden for the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, describing it as "shameful" and claiming that he would have maintained control over Bagram Air Base, which he alleges is now under Chinese control.
Trump recalled the deaths of 13 American soldiers at Kabul Airport in August 2021 and reiterated his criticism of Biden's decision to evacuate Bagram Air Base and leave behind $85 billion in military equipment. He highlighted Bagram's strategic significance due to its proximity to China's border.
Trump also targeted Biden's policies towards China, pledging to reinstate his administration's hardline stance, including tariffs on Chinese goods. He praised his previous relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping and his approach to managing China’s influence.
On North Korea, Trump touted his direct engagement with Kim Jong-un as a successful strategy to control the country’s behavior. He also criticized Biden’s handling of Iran, claiming that his administration had left the Islamic Republic financially weakened, unlike the current situation where Iran has reportedly amassed $250 billion.
Trump expressed his skepticism towards the electric vehicle industry, despite maintaining a good relationship with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has reportedly donated $45 million monthly to Trump’s campaign. Trump opposed the dominance of electric vehicles in the market while acknowledging Musk’s support.
Lastly, Trump warned of potential election fraud, citing polls that show him leading in most states. He reiterated his claims of fraud in the 2020 election and suggested that interference with the 2024 election results could be the only obstacle to his victory. Trump mocked Democrats for their lack of clarity on their candidate, asserting, "The Democrats say I'm a threat to democracy. But I'll tell you what I've done for democracy. Last week, I took a bullet for democracy."
