Trump Speaks to CPAC Attendees in Confident Address

   "I stand before you today to declare that the incredible journey we began together four years ago is far from over," the former President said in his first speech since exiting the White House in January at CPAC in Orlando. "We are gathered this afternoon to talk about the future — the future of our movement, the future of our party, and the future of our beloved country."

   The former Chief Executive spoke for nearly an hour and a half, beginning his adress with a single question. "Do you miss me?" Trump asked to a highly energized crowd. Trump reiterated his claim that his opponent in the 2020 election, President Joe Biden, lost the election, also suggesting that he may run again.

  "Actually, as you know they just lost the White House," Trump railed against Democrats. "Who knows, I may even decide to beat them for a third time," he said, though did not reveal any specific 2024 plans. Trump also discussed the failure of his election suits and criticized mail-in voting. "This election was rigged," Trump proclaimed. "They didn't have the guts or the courage to make the right decision." Trump won the 2024 CPAC Presidential contender poll, as some at the event even joked, renaming the conference "TPAC" in the midst of Trump supporters' superfluous presence at the Hyatt.

   Trump conveyed his dislike for fellow Republicans who he deemed wrong in promoting his impeachment and conviction. His successor's directives on school reopenings, China and immigration were also a target in Trump's speech. The former President made it clear though that he did not intend to start a new political party, but did declare an interest in forming new alliances and reshuffling the deck of cards at hand.

   Local Republicans came out in force along with national sister organizations to welcome the Trump in the thousands outside the hotel.