Earlier today, a rally for former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, turned chaotic when a gunman opened fire, resulting in what authorities are now investigating as an attempted assassination. The rally, which was part of Trump’s campaign trail, saw Trump being quickly escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents after shots rang out.
The incident occurred as Trump was presenting a chart on illegal border crossings. A popping sound was heard, prompting Trump to clutch his ear and agents to swiftly move him to safety. It remains unclear whether Trump was directly hit by gunfire or if his injuries resulted from the agents’ rapid actions. Reports indicate that he is fine and currently undergoing a medical check-up at a local facility.
Law enforcement officials, speaking anonymously to The Associated Press, revealed that the shooter was not an attendee at the rally. The shooter, armed with an AR-style rifle, was killed by Secret Service agents. The attack left one attendee dead and two others critically injured.
In response to the incident, President Joe Biden delivered a televised address condemning the violence and expressing relief that Trump was reportedly unharmed. Biden’s campaign has paused all messaging and is working to pull down all television ads. This incident marks the first assassination attempt on a U.S. president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
The scene at the rally was described by Rico Elmore, vice chairman of the Beaver County Republican Party, who was present and initially thought the sounds were firecrackers. Elmore, using his military first aid training, attempted to help a man who had been shot in the head but found it was too late.
Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that the Justice Department will use all available resources to investigate the attack, calling it an assault on democracy. The Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee have announced that the convention in Milwaukee will proceed as planned, with Trump expected to attend.
The swift actions of the Secret Service were praised by political leaders across the spectrum, including former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and international figures like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., and his daughter Ivanka expressed their gratitude for the support and quick response from law enforcement.
The shooting highlights the ongoing risks associated with political campaigns and rallies, echoing past instances of violence against political figures. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of all presidential candidates during their campaigns.
