In Vandalia, Ohio, former President Donald Trump made a bold statement. He declared that he is the true protector of Social Security, not President Joe Biden. Trump issued a stark warning about the consequences of his potential loss in November. He was there to support Senate candidate Bernie Moreno in Ohio.
Trump delivered his speech at a rally outside Dayton, praising Moreno. He described Moreno as a champion of “America first” and a political newcomer dedicated to building Ohio communities. Trump expressed confidence in Moreno, calling him a warrior for Washington. This came shortly after Trump secured enough delegates to win the 2024 Republican nomination.
Moreno is up against Frank LaRose and Matt Dolan in the GOP primary. LaRose and Moreno have aligned with Trump’s supporters, whereas Dolan has the backing of more traditional Republicans. This includes support from Gov. Mike DeWine and former Sen. Rob Portman.
The rally was organized by Buckeye Values PAC, which supports Moreno. However, Trump used the opportunity to deliver a fiery speech. He painted a grim picture of the future if Biden secures a second term. Trump warned of severe consequences for the country, particularly the auto industry, if he doesn’t win. He talked about increasing tariffs on foreign-made cars.
Biden’s campaign responded to Trump’s remarks. Spokesperson James Singer accused Trump of inciting political violence. Singer stated that the American people would reject Trump’s extremism in November. In contrast, Trump’s campaign clarified that Trump was discussing the economic impact of a second Biden term.
Trump also struggled with his teleprompters due to strong winds. Despite past criticisms of Trump, Moreno stood by him at the rally. Moreno once criticized Trump but now praises him as a great American. Trump brushed off recent allegations against Moreno, comparing them to his own experiences with legal challenges.
Trump accused Biden of threatening Social Security. He tried to clarify his stance after a recent interview suggested openness to cuts. Trump insisted he would always protect Social Security and Medicare. He criticized Biden’s management of the border and called Dolan a “weak RINO.”
The rally also featured Ohio Sen. JD Vance and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem. Trump’s support for Moreno dealt a blow to LaRose, who had sought Trump’s favor. The primary winner will challenge Sen. Sherrod Brown, a vulnerable Democrat, in November. Brown has managed to maintain his seat despite Ohio’s rightward shift.