1st Day Of RNC Focuses On Terrorism, Immigration
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The greatest political show on Earth is unfolding in Cleveland, Ohio, this week.
Donald Trump is the most unpredictable presidential candidate we have ever seen. And he broke from tradition Monday night.
Trump made a dramatic entrance before introducing his wife Melania Trump. Melania made a rare public speech on behalf of her husband. An effort to show a softer family side of Donald, who is known to voters as a tough talking, politically incorrect, profane and sometimes divisive candidate.
"He's tough when he has to be, but he's also kind and fair and caring," said Melania Trump. "This kindness is not always noted, but it is there for all to see. That is one reason I fell in love with him to begin with."
Monday's convention theme was "Make America Safe Again," with a focus on dangers from immigration and terrorism. The convention played a video about the attack on the American Embassy in Benghazi, then featured the mother of one of the four American citizens killed there.
Patricia Smith brought many delegates to tears with the story about her son's death. She said Hillary Clinton, who was secretary of state at the time of the attack, should be in prison.
"I blame Hillary Clinton. I blame Hillary Clinton personally for the death of my son. That's personally," Smith said. "If Hillary Clinton can't give us the truth, why should we give her the presidency?"
Donald Trump had promised a more entertaining, "show-biz" convention than old school political gatherings of the past. He brought out 80s sitcom actor Scott Baio, soap opera sensation Antonio Sabato and "Duck Dynasty" star Willie Robertson, who wore an American flag bandanna.
"America is in a bad spot and we need a president who will have our back," said Robertson. "And I can promise you this: No matter who you are, Donald Trump will have your back."
Earlier Monday, the Trump campaign squashed a mini revolt. There was open shouting and chaos on the floor for a time as anti-Trump delegates tried to change the rules. They wanted to open the convention to other candidates by unbinding delegates from their votes.