Reason for Jacksonville Rally Cancellation: Trump Says "To Set an Example for Social Distancing"

President Donald Trump of the United States
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Donghoon Jeong] U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that the reason for the sudden cancellation of the Republican National Convention, which was scheduled to be held next month in Jacksonville, Florida, was "to set an example."

On the 23rd (local time), President Trump explained this during an exclusive phone interview with Fox News anchor Sean Hannity, saying, "We don't want people to be too close together," and expressed hope that his decision would help encourage 'social distancing.'

During the interview, President Trump reiterated that the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is China's responsibility, stating, "Whether you call it COVID-19 or one of several other names, this is essentially the China virus."

President Trump also expressed dissatisfaction toward North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. The Republican Party originally planned to hold the convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, but after Democratic Governor Cooper adhered to social distancing guidelines, the plan was partially changed to hold the convention in Charlotte while holding major events such as the acceptance speech in Jacksonville.

President Trump criticized Governor Cooper's actions, saying, "As you know, we went to North Carolina and wanted to hold it there. Everything was ready. We were going to build beautiful facilities, but we were hit by (COVID-19)." He added, "The Democratic governor should not have treated us that way."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.