Former President Trump talks 2020 election, abortion in return to CNN

Former president Donald Trump appeared on CNN’s Republican Presidential Town Hall on Wednesday night—his first time back at CNN since 2016, when he accused the network of reporting fake news. On Wednesday, Trump stood his ground on many issues central to his supporters, while evading clear-cut answers to other divisive issues. For example, when asked if he defended his stance on fraud in the 2020 election, Trump said he would never stop calling out inadequacies, including those present in 2020. When asked whether he would support federal protections for the unborn, Trump did not give a definitive answer but did point to his record in helping overturn Roe v. Wade.

What’s the political backdrop for Trump’s appearance? Trump is one of seven Republicans who have announced they’re running to become president in 2024. While Trump is the only former president running, he is dealing with legal troubles externally while competing with the other candidates.

Dig deeper: Read Carolina Lumetta’s report on the developing 2024 presidential race.