The Republican National Convention didn't start off well, as allegations of plagiarism against Melania Trump kicked the week off for the GOP. After Texas Sen. Ted Cruz refused to endorse the billionaire real estate mogul on night three, Donald Trump took to the stage on Thursday night and delivered one of the longest nomination acceptance speeches in recent memory.
Duke on Trump
Despite the controversy throughout the week, all eyes were on Trump shortly after 10 p.m. local time. The former host of "The Apprentice" spoke for nearly and hour and a half, in what many considered a well put together speech, though fact-checkers have since debunked many of his claims.
As expected, the right-wing media embraced the speech, while the left criticized it. However, one controversial figure praised Trump's words, as former Ku Klux Klan (KKK) Grand Wizard David Duke celebrated on Twitter on July 22.
Great Trump Speech, America First! Stop Wars! Defeat the Corrupt elites! Protect our Borders!, Fair Trade! Couldn't have said it better!
— David Duke (@DrDavidDuke) July 22, 2016
"Great Trump Speech," Duke tweeted out moments after the conclusion of Trump's speech. "America First! Stop Wars! Defeat the Corrupt elites! Protect our Borders!, Fair Trade!," Duke continued ending with, "Couldn't have said it better!"
This was a scary speech, by a scary man, who needs a scared electorate to have any chance to win: https://t.co/8I0ubd9da1
— Ezra Klein (@ezraklein) July 22, 2016
This isn't the first time that Duke has expressed his joy for Trump, as he offered his endorsement earlier in the year.
Trump was roundly criticized for taking days to disavow the support from the former Klansman, and when he did, appeared annoyed in having to do so. Since that time, local KKK groups around the country have thrown their support to the offical GOP nominee, as Republicans continues to fight back allegations of racism within the party.
Election time
With the convention now in the rear view mirror, Trump, along with his running mate, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, will now get ready to take on Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. Much of Trump's speech put a negative focus on Clinton, as he hammered home his previous theme of the former Secretary of State's untrustworthiness. According to recent polls, Clinton's lead has dropped to just five points nationally, but Trump's struggles with minority voters continue to make her the odds on favorite in November.
