Real estate baron Steven Witkoff uses RNC speech to humanize Trump, recall son who OD'd

Real estate baron Steven Witkoff spoke at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Thursday to highlight former president Donald Trump 's integrity and empathy that people don't see on TV.

Steven was introduced by his son Zach Witkoff, who said his father shares the same "hard work, unwavering loyalty and perseverance" as the GOP presidential nominee.

"An American Trilogy" by Elvis Presley played as Steven took the podium arguing that the song captures who Trump is as a person, emphasizing the lyrics "his truth is marching on." The business owner opened up about how Trump was there for him after his son, Andrew, died after an opioid overdose.

"I thought of that song after my dear friend was shot a few days ago, I gave him a call. I expected to leave him a voicemail, so it surprised me when he answered the phone. "But he picked up the phone and said, 'Hi, Steve, I'm really glad you called how are you how are you kids?' It surprised me, but it shouldn't have. I know this man very well. President Trump is as kind and compassionate a man as I've ever met my lifetime."

The Republican National Convention is in Milwaukee through Thursday where former President Donald Trump on Thursday will formally accept the party’s nomination for the 2024 Election.

USA TODAY and the USA TODAY Network have more than 60 journalists on the ground in Milwaukee and you can follow along with our live blog for updates throughout the day .

RNC 2024 live updates: When is Donald Trump's speech? Can I livestream the RNC?

What to know about Steven and Zach Witkoff

• Who are they: Steven is the chairman and CEO of Witkoff. Zach is an executive vice-president at the company
• What role do they play: Convention speakers
• Key quote: "Many Americans have only witnessed his leadership on TV But I have seen his humanity. In the quiet moments away from the spotlight. In hospital rooms, he didn't have to be in, where his presence, brought real solace in a dark hour from my family, and many other families that. That's who he is."

When and where is the Republican National Convention?

The Republicans' convention will take place over four days, from July 15-18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The Fiserv Forum , home of the Milwaukee Bucks , will be the main venue for the RNC.

There also will be events at the nearby University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Panther Arena and the Baird Center.

How can you watch the event and stay up-to-date on convention news?

USA TODAY is streaming the RNC from start to finish, and you can watch it here starting Monday, July 15:

Updates from the RNC will be available at gopconvention2024.com .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Real estate baron Steven Witkoff uses RNC speech to humanize Trump, recall son who OD'd