Former President Donald Trump was swiftly escorted off stage during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after gunshots were heard among the crowd, causing panic and chaos.
Witnesses reported scenes of distress as security personnel rushed Trump to safety amid the unfolding incident.
Initial reports indicated Trump appeared to be bleeding from his ear as he was taken off stage.
His campaign later reassured the public that he was “fine” and undergoing evaluation at a medical facility.
Anthony Guglielmi, head of communications for the Secret Service, confirmed in a statement on X.com that protective measures were implemented and Trump is safe.
President Joe Biden, briefed on the incident, expressed relief that Trump was unharmed.
“I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well,” Biden stated. “Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There’s no place for this kind of violence in America.”
Across the political spectrum, condemnation of the violence was swift. Senator Bernie Sanders denounced the incident, emphasizing, “Political violence is absolutely unacceptable.”
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who recently endorsed Trump on his social media platform X, expressed support for Trump’s recovery, further stirring reactions amidst ongoing political tensions.
Reports indicated Musk had previously donated to a pro-Trump political group.
Republican leaders joined in solidarity, with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell condemning the “despicable act” and affirming that “violence has no place in our politics.”
However, Congressman Greg Steube sparked controversy by linking the incident to Trump’s legal challenges, stating, “They tried to jail him and now they’ve tried to kill him.”
Steube’s remarks drew criticism amid ongoing investigations into the motive behind the shooting.
Trump, currently facing multiple criminal charges related to his presidency, including attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, has remained a divisive figure in American politics.
The Secret Service has launched an active investigation into the incident, promising further updates as details emerge.