On December 22, 2024, President Donald J. Trump delivered an electrifying speech at Turning Point Action’s AmFest in Phoenix, Arizona, marking his first significant rally-style address since his victory in the November 5 election. The occasion also serves as his ambitious return to the political stage, as he approaches his forthcoming inauguration on January 20, 2025. Enthusiastic supporters began gathering outside the Phoenix Convention Center as early as 1 a.m. local time, eager to witness the former president speak at 10:30 a.m. Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, provided a passionate introduction, emphasizing the grassroots movement galvanized by Trump’s candidacy and the significance of his three-point victory in Arizona. The atmosphere was charged with an unmistakable sense of anticipation and solidarity among his supporters.
With thunderous applause, Trump took the stage, immediately setting the tone for his speech by wishing everyone a “very merry Christmas”—a sentiment he felt was increasingly shunned in contemporary discourse. He reflected on his triumph across all seven swing states in the recent election, claiming it was a significant and unexpected victory against the odds. Throughout his address, he highlighted the magnitude of his win, calling the election “one of the great political victories in the history of our country.” His narrative underscored his ability to rally his base and turn out voters despite all challenges, reinforcing the idea that when a movement is substantial enough, it becomes “too big to rig.”
Trump’s remarks were infused with personal anecdotes and humor, adding a theatrical flair to his speech. He reminisced about his feelings leading up to the event, showcasing both self-awareness and charisma as he jokingly acknowledged concerns about tripping on stage. This approach not only entertained his audience but also served as a reminder of his resilient spirit in the face of adversity. Trump’s recounting of his electoral journey included a celebratory tone as he recounted overcoming obstacles, likening his campaign to an army successfully mobilizing for a common cause, much to the delight of his fervent supporters in attendance.
The former president emphasized the importance of his electoral accomplishments, which included reclaiming not just the White House, but also the US Senate and achieving unprecedented popular vote support for House Republicans—a feat last seen in 1928. By celebrating these successes, he connected with his audience on an emotional level, appealing to their sense of pride and reinforcing the belief that they were part of an extraordinary journey. The imagery of overcoming challenges and achieving historic victories resonated deeply, creating a collective sense of identity among his supporters focused on an ideological mission for America’s future.
Trump’s speech also served as a rebuttal to the narrative of previous elections, particularly his first presidential run, where critics argued that he had lost the popular vote. This time, however, he was able to claim an overwhelming popular majority, and his confidence in this success was palpable. He boasted of winning states that are typically difficult for Republicans, emphasizing the significance of his Arizona victory, which was achieved by a remarkable six-point margin. Such statements contributed to the feeling of a once-divided party uniting behind a common purpose, further galvanizing attendees.
Overall, Trump’s remarks at the AmFest event encapsulated the essence of his approach to politics—combining personal storytelling with sweeping declarations of achievement. As he gears up for his inauguration, his return to Phoenix not only celebrated electoral success but also re-energized his loyal base, reinforcing a narrative of resilience and determination. The event highlighted the fervor of the supporters who rallied around his leadership while painting a picture of an imminent future marked by renewal and reassertion of conservative values in the face of challenges.
