What Went Down During President Trump’s Closing Speech At The RNC

This convention has involved a number of current White House staff as speakers, including Ja’Ron Smith, Kellyanne Conway, Kayleigh McEnany and Larry Kudlow. As I noted last night, it’s unclear whether the Hatch Act prevents such speeches — the guidance from the Office of Special Counsel is a bit contradictory on this. But it’s highly unusual for modern presidential conventions to include employees of the nominee as speakers. And it tends to undermine their message.

Having voters (and politicians) who have “crossed over” is a convention convention. It’s compelling! Our side is so righteous, even the “other guys” are starting to see it.

In response to what Nate and Nathaniel mentioned about how giving the RNC speech from the White House will play for the president, I’m reminded of what we know about public opinion on things that are overtly “political” — people have tended to put more trust in institutions like the military and the Supreme Court than those that reflect lots of messy political back-and-forth, like Congress. People are a little suspicious of the political game and perhaps prefer to keep some institutions separate from that. If this is still true in these polarized times, that might shape public reaction to tonight’s convention speech.