He might not be able to show.
Donald Trump is making preparations for a scenario where he may not physically attend the Republican National Convention, a decision influenced partly by the potential of facing home confinement following his recent historic conviction. Both Mar-a-Lago, his residence in Florida, and Milwaukee, the convention’s host city next month, are being readied for contingencies, according to sources familiar with the planning.
Senior adviser Brian Hughes emphasized the campaign’s collaboration with the RNC to organize a noteworthy convention program that will highlight the party and officially confirm Trump’s nomination. Despite the preparations, Hughes clarified after the article’s publication that there has been no consideration other than Trump attending in person to accept his formal nomination.
Recently convicted on multiple counts related to falsifying business records, Trump faces sentencing just days before the convention. The potential penalties include fines, probation, or up to four years in prison per count, with the possibility of home confinement still on the table. Trump has expressed acceptance of the situation, stating he is prepared for the outcome, including the prospect of house arrest.
In anticipation of various scenarios, the RNC is setting up convention-themed facilities at Mar-a-Lago and deploying advanced technology at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, the primary convention venue. This setup includes a high-tech stage that will allow remote participation, potentially enabling Trump to engage in convention activities from afar.
While the idea of Trump being under house arrest during the convention has been considered in planning discussions, details about potential arrangements at Mar-a-Lago and remote participation options have been actively explored by campaign officials.
Despite these preparations, Trump has voiced dissatisfaction with Milwaukee, citing concerns about crime and voter fraud during a recent meeting with House Republicans. His campaign, however, maintains that the convention remains a significant event where announcements, such as the vice presidential running mate, may still occur depending on the circumstances.
Legal experts suggest Trump may seek suspension of his sentence pending appeal, which would allow him to continue his activities freely. Nonetheless, if confinement affects his attendance, it would mark a departure from convention tradition, where nominees typically deliver their acceptance speeches in person.
In past conventions, Trump has been a prominent figure, accepting nominations and addressing delegates directly. His attendance in 2020, despite challenges posed by the pandemic, underscored his commitment to in-person participation.
