Asheboro, NC: Former President Donald Trump is set to hold his first outdoor rally since surviving an assassination attempt, taking the stage behind bulletproof glass on Wednesday. The rally, which will be held at an aviation museum in Asheboro, North Carolina, is a crucial event for Trump as he seeks to reignite the fervor of his supporters in the lead-up to the November 5 election.

Joined by his vice-presidential pick, J.D. Vance, Trump will speak against a backdrop of vintage warplanes, focusing on his national security policies. This marks his return to large outdoor events after being lightly injured in an attempted assassination in Butler, Pennsylvania, last month. The incident, which resulted in the death of a bystander and the shooter being neutralized by a Secret Service sniper, has led to heightened security measures for the former president.

The Secret Service, while not commenting on specific security plans, has recommended Trump limit his appearances to more controlled indoor venues. However, the decision to hold this rally outdoors signals Trump's determination to maintain his signature style of large, enthusiastic gatherings, which have been a cornerstone of his political strategy.

Trump's campaign faces a significant challenge in the wake of Vice President Kamala Harris's rise in popularity following President Joe Biden's unexpected decision to drop his re-election bid. Harris has been drawing large crowds, matching and even surpassing the turnout at Trump's rallies, particularly in key battleground states like North Carolina.

As the November election approaches, both Trump and Harris are intensifying their efforts in swing states, where the outcome is expected to be decided. The rally in North Carolina, a critical battleground, is part of Trump's broader strategy to regain momentum in what has become an increasingly competitive race.