As Donald Trump announced his bid for president in an “incredibly low energy” speech, his staff attempted to stop people from leaving the event.
ABC reporter Olivia Rubin filmed the scene, where people can be scene shuffling towards the door during the speech. Rubin wrote that security wouldn’t let the crowds leave. Unlike many of Trump’s previous rallies, Tuesday’s event at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate seemed very quiet.
The speech, which lasted more than an hour, contained much of the former president’s usual rhetoric. Viewers seemed to be bored, and one video showed them talking and milling around while he spoke.
“In order to make America great and glorious again, I am tonight announcing my candidacy for president of the United States,” he said to the crowd. “Our country is in a horrible state. We’re in grave trouble. This is not a task for a politician or a convential candidate. This is a task for a great movement that embodies the courage, confidence and the spirit of the American people.”
Trump’s tired announcement was so boring, even Fox News cut away from the coverage. His speech consisted of several falsehoods and exaggerations, which reporters rushed to point out and correct.
Audience members may have been bored because his speech mostly reiterated points he’s made before. He discussed “cheating” in the elections, “sinister” immigrants crossing the border and all the ways he purportedly made America “great” during his presidency.
The midterm elections proved disappointing for Trump and his supporters, as many of his favorite candidates lost, including Mehmet Oz and Kari Lake.
“I think if they win, I should get all the credit,” he said about the midterm results. “If they lose, I should not be blamed at all.”
