RNC Day 3: JD Vance accepts nomination for vice president as Trump watches on

Former president's 17-year-old granddaughter speaks

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Last updated: Thursday, July 18, 2024 9:23AM GMT
RNC DAY 3 RECAP: Trump watches running mate JD Vance
VP pick JD Vance speaks at RNC. Here's what he said and what he didn't talk about.

MILWAUKEE -- Day 3 of the Republican National Convention featured the prime-time debut of J.D. Vance, introducing himself both to Republicans and Americans nationwide.

Former President Donald Trump made an appearance at the convention hall to watch his running mate make his national debut.

His 17-year-old granddaughter spoke, as well, humanizing her grandfather.

Wednesday's theme at the RNC was "Make America Strong Once Again."

As the RNC's evening session was about to begin, the Biden campaign announced that the president had contracted COVID-19 and would be flying to Delaware to quarantine.

ABCNews logo
Jul 17, 2024, 11:25 PM GMT

'Mass Deportation Now!' signs being passed out

As the third night gets underway, with a national security and foreign policy theme, new signs are being given to attendees that read, "Mass Deportation Now!"

Trump has pledged to carry out the largest deportation in U.S. history if reelected, targeting millions of immigrants living in the country without legal permission.

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Jul 17, 2024, 11:19 PM GMT

Wednesday session is underway, promises sweeping attacks on Biden

The third night of the RNC promises sweeping critiques of President Biden as a weak commander-in-chief and head of state. There has been plenty of Biden bashing already this week - expected at a Republican convention ahead of challenging an incumbent Democrat.

The question is whether the attacks land beyond conservatives already inclined to vote for Trump.

Republican Chairman Michael Whatley previewed the line of argument in his introductory remarks, talking of a porous Southern border and asserting that Russia and China were "in check" when Trump was president. But the latter, in particular, is a simplified view of the realities behind Moscow's and Beijing's ambitions and aggressive posturing in their respective regions.

Trump spent much of his presidency making friendly overtures toward Vladimir Putin. Biden, meanwhile, has largely tracked Trump's approach on trade policy with China.

But those details and nuances won't find airtime tonight in Milwaukee.

ByABC7 Chicago Digital Team WLS logo
Jul 17, 2024, 8:44 PM GMT

Man arrested with gun in 'exterior zone' of RNC also had 'Scream' mask, ammo: court records

The man arrested Monday about a mile away from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee for carrying a concealed weapon also had a "Scream" movie mask and ammunition, court records show.

Donnell V. Tinsley, 21, of Milwaukee has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon.

Tinsley's hands were allegedly shaking, and he began to look left and right, as police approached about 10:45 a.m. Monday, according to court records.

Police found an AK-47 pistol, a fully loaded magazine, a "Scream" movie mask, a flashlight, gloves, a security uniform shirt, spray paint and empty marijuana bags in Tinsley's backpack, records show.

They also found two cellphones, documents say.

United States Capitol Police initially observed Tinsley looking suspicious, wearing a ski mask and a large tactical backpack in the street, police said.

He does not have a concealed-carry permit in Wisconsin or any other state, police said.

Court records show Tinsley was in the "exterior zone" of the RNC.

ByKelsey Walsh ABCNews logo
Jul 17, 2024, 8:27 PM GMT

Trump takes a walk around RNC stage

Trump arrived at the RNC Wednesday afternoon and walked around the stage in preparation of his acceptance speech slated for Thursday.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump during his walk-through on the third day of the Republican National Convention, July 17, 2024, in Milwaukee.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump during his walk-through on the third day of the Republican National Convention, July 17, 2024, in Milwaukee.

He spent nearly five minutes practicing his entrance, pointing at the teleprompter, and adjusting his stance. He was joined by an entourage of campaign staff.