During a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the former president was attacked, grabbing his right ear before being quickly brought down to the floor near the podium by Secret Service agents. The incident resulted in minor injuries to the former president, who is reported to be safe. The assailant, who allegedly shot him, is deceased according to the Butler County district attorney. Law enforcement officials suspect an assassination attempt on Trump, who was the target of the attack. The rallygoer who carried out the attack is also reported to be deceased. The former president was seen wincing and grabbing his right ear before being taken down by Secret Service agents to the floor. Despite the chaos, Trump managed to get back on his feet, surrounded by agents with blood running down his face, and gestured towards the crowd before being escorted off the stage. The Secret Service has initiated an investigation into the incident to gather more information. The attack, which occurred just days before the GOP convention, is the first such incident on a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan in 1981.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) wrote on X: “I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) also responded with a post on X: “Political violence is absolutely unacceptable. I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote a message on X, “As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe.”
“As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former President’s rally today are unharmed.”
Former President Barack Obama also weighed in and wished former President Trump “a quick recovery.”
“Grateful for the swift response by law enforcement and Secret Service. Wishing President Trump a swift recovery.”
Former Vice President Mike Pence shared his reaction on X: “Karen and I are praying for President Trump and urge every American to join us.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
