Janice R. Andrews
Despite the consequences from the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, Republicans in Congress toasted Donald Trump on the eve of his 78th birthday with a joyful show of loyalty. In a striking change from previous isolation, lawmakers sung “Happy Birthday” and gave him cake and gifts.
In West Palm Beach, Florida, close to his Mar-a-Lago home, thousands of fans are still celebrating Trump’s birthday today. All 5,000 tickets, which ranged in price from $35 to $60, were sold out for the event, which was put on by the “Club 47” fan club. This demonstrates that despite his recent felony conviction, Trump’s base continues to find him appealing.
On Thursday, Trump made his first trip to Capitol Hill since the violence in 2021. Senate Republicans sent him a cake with 45 candles, plus two extra to symbolize his desire to become the 47th president. House Republicans gave him a baseball and bat from the legislative game. Renewing their relationship, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who recently endorsed Trump, attended and gave him a fist bump.
Club 47 seeks to maintain Trump’s base of support, especially in Palm Beach County. Attending today’s ceremony, local Hispanic activist Lydia Maldonado noted how the community has been very supportive of Trump, which makes this birthday celebration special and important.
With intentions to accept the Republican Party’s presidential nomination for a record third time next month, Trump is still a major player in the party. Currently, he is three years younger than 81-year-old President Joe Biden.
