Donald Trump touted the unprecedented unity of the Republican Party in a civil speech Saturday night after the state’s primary election was called.
The Associated Press officially projected Trump the winner at 7 p.m. ET, the moment the polls closed.
“There’s never been a spirit like this,” Trump said in a 15-minute speech after predicting victory. “I just want to say, I’ve never seen the Republican Party as united as it is.” Ta.
He spent much of his speech thanking his supporters, naming a number of government officials on stage and touting the latest in historic developments in this year’s primaries.
In a show of solidarity, President Trump did not mention Nikki Haley, but she remained in the race in hopes of revitalizing her home state of South Carolina, where she served two terms as governor.
Those dreams appear to have been dashed as President Trump continues to focus on the general election.
“Remember the date,” he said. “November 5th will probably be the most important day in our nation’s history.”
Trump’s subdued comments were more pronounced than the bombastic Trump style he displayed during a speech earlier in the weekend, not just across South Carolina, but at the annual CPAC event in National Harbor, Maryland, earlier in the day. It seemed more traditional presidential.
However, he made it clear that he has no intention of delaying his campaign.
“We are a failed state, but we won’t be a failed state for much longer,” he told an enthusiastic audience Saturday night. “We are not going to allow something like this to happen. We love our country. We love it dearly. We are going to fight for our country. We are going to fight for our rights.
“We are not going to continue doing this because this is not sustainable for any country.”
Trump talked about his incredible record in the state, saying, “You know, in South Carolina, I’ve won every primary by a record, and I’ve won every election by a record.” He said with a smile.
After tonight, that record may include the end of Haley’s political career.
Although the immediate future of his campaign is uncertain, a November date between Trump and Biden, or his potential opponent in the general election, appears to be set.
“Go home. Get some rest,” he told supporters. “We have a lot of work ahead of us.”
Bradley Jay is Breitbart News’ Capitol Hill correspondent. Follow him on X/Twitter. @BradleyAJay.
