Fox News 2024-07-15 08:08:54


Trump arrives in Milwaukee for RNC just one day after surviving assassination attempt

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Trump arrives in Milwaukee day after surviving assassination attempt

Trump Force One landed in Milwaukee at around 6:45 p.m. on Sunday evening, just a day after a man allegedly attempted to assassinate former President Trump
in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Eric Trump shared a video of Trump Force One landing in Milwaukee from the cockpit of the aircraft on social media.

Another video shared by Dan Scavino Jr., a senior advisor to former President Trump, showed Trump’s motorcade driving into Milwaukee

As Trump’s plane began its descent, nearly 25 of his supporters were waiting, with one waving a large American flag.

Also waiting for the presidential candidate to arrive were families with young kids, while a woman drove by shouting, “Yeah, Trump!”

Another couple drove by asking what everyone was waiting around for, and when told they were waiting for trump, the woman said, “That’s too bad.”

Deirdre Heavey of Fox News contributed to this report.


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FBI has obtained suspected shooter’s cell, is speaking with friends, family about possible motive

The FBI believes the suspected shooter at former President Trump’s Pennsylvania rally on Saturday acted alone, but the bureau is talking to the suspect’s friends and family to see whether anyone knew of his plans, a senior official told Fox News.

Kevin Rojek, FBI Special Agent in Charge Pittsburgh, said earlier Sunday that information obtained by the bureau indicates the shooter acted alone, and the is no further public safety concern.

“We have not identified an ideology associated with the subject, but I want to remind everyone that we’re still very early in this investigation,” Rojek said.

The FBI has obtained the suspect’s cell phone and sent it to Quantico, but haven’t yet been able to extract any data. Once they do, it may possible open up other avenues for subjects who potentially knew of the suspect’s plans.

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ATF was on scene of Trump rally shooting ‘within minutes’

The ATF was on the scene of Donald Trump’s Pennsylvania rally “within minutes” after an assassination attempt on the president, according to the agency.

The ATF identified the shooter in less than 30 minutes by completing an urgent trace through the agency’s National Tracing Center on out-of-business records from a close dealer and provided the FBI and the U.S. Secret Service those results.

The ATF said it is continuing to provide support to its partners with respect to firearm evidence including securing additional evidence and locations for the execution of warrants.

ATF experts with the agency’s National Center for Explosives Training and Research (NCETR) facility are providing assistance related to the suspected destructive devices, ATF said.

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Psaki tells GOP to change programming at RNC to ‘restore civility’ amid failed assassination attempt

Former White House press secretary Jen Psaki called on the Republican National Committee to overhaul its planned programming for the upcoming convention to avoid “escalating” the country’s rhetoric following the failed assassination attempt against former President Trump.

In an appearance on “Meet the Press” Sunday, Psaki described feeling “scared” in the aftermath of the attempt on former President Trump’s life, echoing other panelists who called for the country to dial down the divisive political rhetoric.

With the Republican National Convention set to begin on Monday, Psaki said the party should adjust the planned speakers and programming to lower the temperature and “restore civility.” Psaki said that while calls among Democrats for Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race have been “paused,” the convention could reignite the conversation. 

“The convention is starting and unless the programming changes, the rhetoric and how the programming is set up is not actually calming the tone or restoring civility,” Psaki said. “We’ll see if that programming changes, but if it stays the same, that is escalating it. It is not a civil approach to a convention.”

Read the
full article about Jen Psaki
by Yael Halon

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Who is the head of the Secret Service? What to know about Kimberly Cheatle

Hours after a shooter attempted to assassinate former President Trump during a rally on Saturday, experts have called into question the actions taken by the Secret Service and who is calling the shots.

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, the 27th director of the United States Secret Service (USSS), was appointed by President Biden to lead the Secret Service in 2022, making her only the second woman ever in history to lead the agency.”

That achievement in a male-dominated industry was not lost on me,” Cheatle said in a 2022 Security Magazine article about “Women in Security.” 

“I kept a photo on my desk of the first five women sworn into the service, and I used that to remind me that these women created opportunities for me and I can help others grow and lead as well.”

Read the full article about Kimberly Cheatle by Stepheny Price

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Trump ‘extremely lucky’ to have survived assassination attempt, former special forces soldiers say

Former President Trump is “extremely lucky” to be alive after a deadly assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, according to two special forces soldiers.

“He is extremely lucky to be alive,” James Pechi, a Marine veteran who later served as a Green Beret, said of the former president in an interview with Fox News Digital.

“I was trying to look at this, trying to figure out what was the shot, what was going on,” he added. “It sounded like he shot five times, and then it looked like he grazed [Trump’s] ear or something. … It obviously did some damage.”

Pechi – who took part in the Special Operations Target Interdiction Course (SOTIC), now known as the Special Forces Sniper Course, during his tenure in the military – insisted “there’s no ifs, ands or buts about” the fact that Trump could have lost his life at the rally if the bullet had come into closer contact.

Read the full article about President Trump by Kyle Morris

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House Republican calls for Warren Commission-style committee to investigate Trump shooting

Congressman Jeff Duncan (R-SC) published a press release on Sunday calling for an independent commission to investigate “security failures” at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday.

In a statement, the South Carolina representative called the situation a “catastrophic failure to ensure the safety of the ‘protectee’” after former President Trump was shot in the upper ear.

“Now that details of the attempted assassination of President Donald J. Trump are unfolding, we will witness federal agencies, including the United States Secret Service, go into CYA mode and try to pin blame elsewhere,” Duncan said in a statement.

“We cannot rely just on Congressional Oversight hearings or even Agency Inspector Generals to get the answers that Congress and the American people deserve about the failures to protect President Trump adequately.”

Duncan compared the hypothetical commission to the Warren Commission, which investigated the shooting of President John F. Kennedy, Jr.

“This would be like the Warren Commission that was appointed after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy,” Duncan added. “Additionally, the Independent Commission will address the failures of both Federal and State Law Enforcement apparatuses at this event that, absent a miracle from God, could have resulted in a much more tragic outcome.”

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Video appears to show authorities return fire after attempted assassination of Trump

A video filmed at Donald Trump’s Saturday rally appears to show authorities return fire after shots rang out and injured the former president as he was speaking.

The video, filmed by a bystander in the audience, shows Trump behind the podium on stage while addressing the crowd. On the rooftop of the building behind him, a police sniper is clearly visible.

For a moment, it seems as if something has caught the attention of the police sniper just seconds before shots can be heard ringing out. The police sniper returns fire as U.S. Secret Service (USSS) members rush to cover the former president.

The would-be assassin, later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service, after firing several rounds.

The FBI said Sunday it is investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism.

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Biden to give ‘forceful’ address to condemn political violence before resuming criticism of Trump

The Biden campaign plans to ease off the attacks on former President Trump over the next couple of days before resuming their efforts to draw contrast between the two presidential candidates, according to a Biden campaign official.

The change in tone comes after an alleged shooter attempted to assassinate Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

“Today, President Biden will give a forceful and needed address to update the nation on the horrifying attack on Donald Trump and the need for every American to come together to, not just condemn, but put an end to political violence in this country once and for all,” the campaign official said.

The official also said Biden will expand on his vision to put an end to political violence and bringing and for Americans to come together, during an interview with NBC News’ Lester Holt.

But after the interview with Holt, the Democratic National Convention (DNC) and Biden campaign will ramp up their criticism of Trump.

“Following the president’s interview Monday evening, both the DNC and the campaign will continue drawing the contrast between our positive vision for the future and Trump and Republicans’ backwards-looking agenda over the course of the week,” the Biden campaign official said.

Fox News’ Brooke Singman contributed to this report.

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Swing district Dem calls out parties’ ‘dangerous lies’: ‘Democracy or authoritarianism’

Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, penned a lengthy thread on X about the hyperbole in American politics, urging politicians to stop framing their opponents as “fascists.”

The vulnerable Democrat congressman took to X to denounce the current path that he says the country is on, adding that leaders need to guide America down a different one.

“We can start by dropping hyperbolic threats about the stakes of this election,” he wrote. “It should not be misleadingly portrayed as a struggle between democracy or authoritarianism or a battle against fascists or socialists bent on destroying America. These are dangerous lies.”

Read the full article about Rep. Jared Golden by Julia Johnson

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Trump rally witness is not surprised by assassination attempt, says WWII veteran showed heroism

A Pennsylvania woman attended the rally held by former President Trump on Saturday with her husband and, initially, was uncertain if the pops she heard were directly related to a gun or if someone set off fireworks.

“It was truly a lovely day and as we were sitting there, it really sounded like firecrackers,” Chris Konopka, 56, of McMurray, Pennsylvania, told Fox News Digital over the phone. “There was no panic on my part because I immediately thought, ‘OK, who’s the idiot that did this because he’s ruining it for everybody?’”

Konopka described the day as an incredibly hot one, but lively and full of “happy, pleasant and helpful” rally-goers.

“Nobody was drinking, chanting, screaming; none of it,” she said.

Read the full article about the Trump rally shooting by Gabriele Regalbuto

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Secret Service says no changes made to its RNC security plan after failed Trump assassination

The U.S. Secret Service on Sunday said it was “confident” in its security plan for the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in the wake of the attempted assassination of former President Trump.

Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, RNC Coordinator of the Secret Service, said the event was designated as a special security event, the highest level of security designation. 

“We’re not anticipating any changes to our operational security plans for this event,” she said when asked if any changes had been made in the past 24 hours following the failed attempt on Trump. 

Gibson-Cicchino noted that the plan is a “whole of government approach” and that there was an extensive planning process. Officials noted that Wisconsin is an open-carry state but urged gun owners to be cautious and responsible. 

“Please ensure that the behaviors that we would like to see for those with that responsibility aligns with that responsibility,” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. “And my police department will not tolerate any particular behavior outside of what is legally allowed in regards to that right.”

The RNC will proceed from Monday through Thursday, where Trump is expected to become the Republican nominee. The stakes of the event were raised after Trump was shot Saturday. 

“So we have an operational security plan that’s built out for every area of responsibility related to, any and all aspects of security related to this event,” Gibson-Cicchino said.     

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Trump on his way to Milwaukee for RNC, according to senior advisor: ‘He is so grateful’

Dan Scavino Jr., a senior advisor to former President Trump, announced on X Sunday afternoon that Trump is currently on his way to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the Republican National Convention (RNC).

Scavino attached a video of Trump’s private jet on an airport runway in his social media post.

“President Trump is on his way to Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the @GOPConvention!” the post read. “He is so grateful for all of your prayers, support, and well wishes out there.”

“As he said this morning, ‘In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin,'” Scavino added.

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Eyewitness video shows moments just before and after shots fired at Trump

An eyewitness video from Donald Trump’s rally shows the moments before and after a gunman opened fire from a nearby building, wounding the former president, killing an attendee and injuring others.

The video, filmed from the crowd, shows Trump addressing the audience, referring to a chart to talk about immigration. Within seconds, bullets can be heard ringing out.

Pandemonium erupts, as the attendees realize what is happening and duck for cover.

“What the f— was that?” someone can be heard shouting off camera.

U.S. Secret Service members ultimately shot and killed the would-be assassin, later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

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Secret Serv says local police alerted to gunman, unable to stop him in time

The U.S. Secret Service said Sunday that local authorities were alerted to a threat ahead of the Trump Rally
in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday, but could not find the gunman in time.

Local law enforcement was alerted to a suspicious individual by attendees but could not locate Mr. Crooks before he climbed onto the roof and opened fire, according to US Secret Service Spokesman Anthony Gugliemi.

Mr. Guglielmi tells Fox News the first time Secret Service agents saw the gunman he was already on the roof firing.

At that point, “ a Secret Service Counter Sniper neutralized him,” Guglielmi said.

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Trump’s survival was ‘miraculous’ given bullet’s proximity to his brain, doctor says

The morning after former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday afternoon, Dr. Marc Siegel spoke to Fox News about the “miraculous” outcome.

Appearing on “America Reports,” the Fox News medical contributor and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center expressed his admiration for Trump’s reaction in what he described as a “war zone.”

“The crowd kept its composure when this was going on … They were led by President Trump’s rally cry, raising his fist, saying ‘Fight’ and not giving up,” Siegel said.

“From a medical point of view, that idea of showing courage, and then showing compassion, reaching out on social media to the families of the victim and those who were injured, also sends the right message.”

Read the full article about President Trump by Melissa Rudy

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Biden offers condolences to family of Trump rally shooting victim

The president offered condolences to the family of a former fire chief for Buffalo Township on Sunday after he was revealed as the victim killed during the assassination attempt against former President Trump.

However, Biden did not name Corey Comperatore
, a 50 year old father of daughters, in the post on X.

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Chicago PD monitoring attempted assassination on Trump in PA, ahead of DNC in August

The Chicago Police Department says it is monitoring the situation surrounding an attempted assassination on former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, as it prepares for “anything and everything” ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August.

The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to take place from Aug. 19-22, in Chicago, and police told the public in a post on X that it is planning for the unexpected.

“The Chicago Police Department continues to monitor the situation that unfolded in Butler, Pennsylvania as we prepare for the upcoming Democratic National Convention,” the department wrote. “We have been planning for the convention for more than a year to prepare for anything and everything. As always, CPD will assess and adjust resources as necessary in real-time, based on intelligence and what we are seeing on the ground to protect the entire city.

Police also said they remain in contact and are working closely with federal partners to make sure areas around the convention footprint, as well as dignitaries, are safe and secure.

As the convention approaches, police encourage everyone to be aware of their surroundings in all places, and if they see something, say something by calling 911.

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sends ‘deepest condolences’ to deceased Trump rally shooting victim’s family

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nephew of President John F. Kennedy who was assasinated in November 1962, issued a statement offering his “deepest condolences” to the family of Corey Comperatore.

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Suspected shooter at Trump rally was reportedly on high school rifle team

The suspected shooter at former President Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania Saturday was reportedly on his high school’s rifle team.

Fox News spoke with Jacob Kohler, 21, who talked about shooting suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Kohler described Crooks as an “outcast” who was always alone and “bullied every day.” He said Crooks was on the rifle team with his brother.

Another classmate put that claim into doubt, telling Fox News that to his recollection, Crooks did not make his junior varsity rifle team.

The FBI says the shooting suspect used an AR-style 5.56 rifle, purchased legally. The weapon was located at the scene, adjacent to the shooting suspect who was killed by U.S. Secret Service members shortly after he fired upon Trump.

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Bret Baier details his conversation with Trump in the wake of the Pennsylvania rally shooting: video

“Special Report” anchor Bret Baier joined Fox News host Martha MacCallum on Sunday afternoon to discuss the upcoming Republican National Convention in the wake of the Trump rally shooting on Saturday.

Speaking from Milwaukee, where the RNC will be held this week, Baier said that he recently spoke to former President Trump for around 15 minutes. Baier said that the Republican candidate is “in really great spirits.”

“He praised President Biden for the phone call that he gave him, made to the former president,” Baier explained. “He said it was a good conversation and, in not so many words, Biden expressed, condolences, for the family that was lost.”

Baier also reported that Trump was concerned about the negative impacts the shooting may have on the United States.

“He’s worried about, you know, how things are going to develop in the country,” he explained. “But he said that he was really pleased with how the Secret Service acted and thinks that the convention’s going to go on as scheduled.”

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Doctor and his wife recall chaos at Trump rally in Pennsylvania: ‘Everybody was so upset’

A doctor and his wife appeared on Fox News Channel on Sunday afternoon to discuss their experience at President Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Speaking to Martha MacCallum, Dr.James Sweetland recalled that he immediately went to assist Corey Comperatore, 50, who was shot at the rally and later pronounced dead.

“Being an emergency department physician, I just went into muscle memory,” he explained. “I just went down there to help them. When I got to him, I said, what doctors usually say is, ‘I’m a doctor. I’m here to help.'”

The medical professional added that he performed CPR on Comperatore before Pennsylvania State Troopers took the victim away.

“He was jammed between two benches… we got him up on the bench, and I performed CPR, gave him chest compressions as well as breathe for him for about two minutes,” Sweetland explained. “And at that point, I was tapped on the shoulder by, one of the two largest Pennsylvania state troopers I’ve ever seen. And he said, ‘We got it from here.'”

Sweetland’s wife Lois spoke to MacCallum about how traumatized rally attendees were from the shooting.

“Everybody was so upset,” she explained. “One girl in front of me was, she just lost control. She just sobbed as she was so traumatized. It was so…I felt so bad.”

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Alleged shooter in attempted Trump assassination graduated from Bethel Park HS 2022: officials

The Bethel Park School District in Pennsylvania confirmed the alleged shooter who attempted to kill former President Trump graduated from its high school in 2022.

Thomas Matthew Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School as a member of the class of 2022, according to the district.

“The school district wishes to express its sincere wishes for a speedy and complete recovery for Mr. Trump and those in attendance at the Saturday event who may have been physically harmed or emotionally impacted by these tragic events,” the district wrote in a statement. “We offer special condolences to the family of Mr. Corey Comperatore, who was killed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.”

District officials also said they will cooperate with law enforcement during the investigation surrounding the shooting, making them limited in what they can disclose.

“Moving forward, we will work closely with law enforcement investigators and share information as appropriate regarding school district policies, the active investigation, and law enforcement protocols,” the district wrote.

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FBI looking into Trump assassination attempt as potential act of domestic terrorism

A deadly shooting at a rally for former President Trump is being investigating as a potential terrorism act, the FBI confirmed Sunday.

Kevin Rojek, special FBI agent in charge in Pittsburgh, said the information received by the FBI indicates that the shooter acted alone. The FBI has not confirmed a motive of the shooter.

Rojek confirmed that the gun used in Saturday’s shooting was an “AR-style 5.56 rifle” — meaning a rifle that uses ammunition with a 5.56 mm diameter — that was purchased legally and located at the scene adjacent to the shooter.

“Our number one goal here is to identify the motive of the subject and determine whether, he had any other associates or anyone else that was involved at this point. The investigation, it appears that he was a lone actor, but we still have more investigation to go,” Rojek said. “We are investigating this as a as an assassination attempt, but also looking at it a potential a domestic terrorism act.”

Rojek said there were no indications that the shooter had any mental health issues or any other red flags on his social media account.

At this time technical specialists are investigating all digital evidence and media as well as the suspect’s social media accounts. Lab services are processing DNA evidence as well as the shooter’s weapon.

Rojek said the FBI has several items of evidence that are being transported to the FBI lab at Quantico, Virginia for processing and exploitation, including the shooter’s weapon and phone.

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FBI gives more details on suspected shooter in assassination attempt on former President Trump

The FBI is investigating the shooting of former President Trump as an assassination attempt and a potential act of domestic terrorism, the agency said Sunday.

Investigators are processing DNA evidence collected after the suspected gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was killed, as well as the weapon used in the attack and his cell phone, authorities said.

The weapon, an “AR-style .556 rifle” purchased legally, was found near the shooter at the scene, Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office, told reporters during an audio call with reporters.

The weapon was purchased by Crooks’ father but it was unclear how he gained access to it, the FBI said, noting that there was no indication the rifle was a so-called “straw purchase.”

During the search of Crooks’ vehicle, authorities found a “suspicious device” but it was rendered safe but was being analyzed further. Details about the device were not disclosed.

Investigators were also “urgently working” to gain access to the suspect’s cell phone.

Investigators haven’t determined a motive for the shooting but said there were no indications that Crooks had been treated for any mental health issues. His family is cooperating with the FBI.

The full force of the FBI is being utilized in the investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Trump, FBI Director Christopher Wray said.

“The shooter may be deceased but the investigation is ongoing,” Wray said. “What we witnessed yesterday was nothing short of an attack on democracy and our democratic process. An attempt to assassinate a presidential candidate can only be described as absolutely despicable and will not be tolerated in this country.”

As of Sunday, the FBI has received more than 2,000 tips related to their investigation.

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Discord reveals details of would-be Trump assassin’s account on platform

The 20-year-old Pennsylvania man identified as the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump on Saturday appeared to have an account on the Discord platform, the company said Sunday.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, a Discord spokesperson said an account that appears to be linked to Thomas Matthew Crooks was identified and removed in accordance with the company’s “off-platform behavior policy.”

“It was rarely utilized, has not been used in months, and we have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident, promote violence, or discuss his political views,” the spokesperson said. “Discord strongly condemns violence of any kind, including political violence, and we will continue to coordinate closely with law enforcement.”

Read the full article about Thomas Matthew Crooks by Louis Casiano

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Pennsylvania authorities release names of victims from Trump rally shooting

The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) identified the victims who were injured or killed at the Trump rally shooting on Saturday.

On Sunday, the PSP announced that one person was killed while two are currently injured.

“The deceased victim was identified as Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, PA,” the statement read. The second victim has been identified as 57-year-old David Dutch, of New Kensington, PA, who is currently listed in stable condition.”

“The third victim was identified as 74-year-old James Copenhaver, of Moon Township, PA. He is also listed in stable condition.”

In a statement, Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris said that the victims and their relatives “are certainly in our thoughts today.”

“The Pennsylvania State Police continue to work tirelessly alongside our federal, state and local partners as this investigation continues,” Paris added.

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Daily Show cancels Monday planned RNC broadcast in Milwaukee

The Daily Show, hosted by Jon Stewart, canceled a planned broadcast on Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, during the start of the Republican National Convention.

The show cited “the evolving situation in Milwaukee” as part of its reasoning.

“See you Tuesday,” the show’s account wrote on X. The program indicated that it would be broadcasting during the rest of the convention, but doing so from its studio in New York City.

The show did add that it plans to make up events on the ground in Wisconsin “in the coming weeks.”

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Local police officer confronted gunman before Trump rally shooting: report

A local police officer engaged the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Trump on Saturday, according to the Associated Press.

The Associated Press reported on Sunday afternoon that a local officer climbed up to the roof of the structure where Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was stationed. The officer reportedly engaged Crooks, who pointed his rifle at him.

When the officer retreated and Crooks fired shots at Trump, Secret Service agents shot Crooks, according to the report. The Associated Press reported that an official shared the details on the condition of anonymity.

Fox News Digital asked the Pennsylvania State Police about the report, but the agency is unable to confirm the details amid the investigation.

Later on Sunday, the U.S. Secret Service told media that local authorities were alerted to a threat before the shooting began, but could not find the gunman in time.

Fox News Digital’s Greg Wehner contributed to this update.

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DeSantis slams DC bureaucracy as Biden says trust its investigation into assassin’s motive

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called out the bureaucracy in Washington, D.C., as President Biden says to trust the investigation into the alleged shooter who attempted to assassinate former President Trump.

“Biden tells us to trust the bureaucracy to investigate the assassin’s motive,” DeSantis wrote in a post on X. “But the feds categorized the crazed, leftist congressional baseball shooter as ‘suicide by cop’ – even though the shooter had a well-documented left-wing political bent and made sure that the players on the field were Republicans before attacking.

“And there does need to be an investigation regarding the security protocols used in Butler. The answer to the following question must be provided in short order: how did someone, armed with a rifle, get on top of a roof 150 yards away from the stage,” the Florida governor asked, before accusing D.C. bureaucratic figures of almost never resulting in accountability.

DeSantis noted that this time needs to be different than any time in the past.

“Our country is in the peril it’s in partly because the DC ruling class has consistently evaded responsibility for its failures,” he said.

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PA nursing home confirms it employed man allegedly behind attempted Trump assassination

A nursing home in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania confirmed Sunday that it employed the man who attempted to assassinate former President Trump, Thomas Matthew Crooks, during a rally on Saturday.

“This morning, Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation became aware that Thomas Matthew Crooks, a dietary aide at the Center, was the alleged shooter in the assassination attempt on Former President Trump,” Marcie Grimm, and administrator at the facility said. “We are shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement as Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean.

“We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment further on any specifics,” Grimm added. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Former President Trump and the victims impacted by this terrible tragedy. We condemn all acts of violence.”

James Levinson of Fox News contributed to this report.

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Secret Service used local resources to provide adequate protection for Trump rally: report

The U.S. Secret Service, which is being scrutinized heavily for its coverage of a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania where former President Trump was a victim of an assassination attempt, relied heavily on local police personnel for specialized tactical units used to locate and take care of attackers, according to reports.

The Washington Post reported on Sunday that Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the agency relied on local police during Trump’s rally in Butler to help fill parts of its specialized protection units, like the heavily-armed counter assault group that provided the former president with cover as he was evacuated, as well as the counter sniper teams that located and killed the shooter.

Guglielmi told the Post two of its counter assault agents were on the scene, and the rest of the six-member platoons were filled using members of the Butler County tactical units.

The spokesperson also said two Secret Service counter sniper teams were providing cover at the rally, but two additional teams recommended for adequate protection were filled by local units.

George Bivens, a lieutenant colonel with the Pennsylvania State Police, told reporters local officials assist with providing support for VIP visits, though they take instructions from Secret Service.

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Biden urges people not to ‘make assumptions’ about shooter’s ‘motives or affiliations’

President Joe Biden urged people not to “make assumptions” about the Trump rally shooter’s “motives or affiliations” in remarks Sunday afternoon.

“We don’t yet have any information about the motive of the shooter,” Biden told reporters. “We know who he is. I urge everyone, everyone, please don’t make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations. Let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job.”

The remarks come after Biden was briefed by the FBI,
Homeland Security, and the National Security Agency on Sunday. Biden said he instructed the Secret Service to thoroughly examine all of the Republican National Convention’s security measures ahead of its Monday kickoff. Former President Trump is scheduled to address delegates on Thursday evening — the last day of the convention — when he will officially be nominated as the Republican Party’s candidate to face off against Biden in the 2024 election.

“I directed an independent review of the national security at yesterday’s rally to assess exactly what happened and we’ll share the results of that independent review with the American people as well,” Biden said. “And finally, I’ll be speaking more about this tonight at greater length from the Oval Office. We must unite as one nation. We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are. So, may God bless you all and may God protect our troops.”

Biden did not take any questions from reporters following the update.

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Trump to travel to Milwaukee as planned, Biden plans Oval Office address

Former President Trump announced that he is planning to travel to Wisconsin for the RNC according to his original plans, despite Saturday’s shocking shooting.

Trump posted the update at around 2:09 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. In his post, he admitted that he planned to delay his RNC trip due to “yesterday’s terrible events.”

“Based on yesterday’s terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a “shooter,” or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else,” the former president wrote.

“Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3:30 P.M. TODAY. Thank you! DJT[.]”

Two minutes later, Trump posted a brief update reading: “UNITE AMERICA!”

The social media post came around the same time that the White House announced President Biden will address the country from the Oval Office tonight. The speech will mark Biden’s third formal address from the Oval Office.

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Nikki Haley accepts invitation to speak at RNC as GOP unites in wake of assassination attempt

Nikki Haley has accepted an invitation to speak at the Republican National Convention this week, a sign of party unity as the nation reels from the assassination attempt against former President Trump.

Haley served in Trump’s administration but ran against him in the 2024 primary, ultimately becoming his final rival in the race. It is unclear which day of the convention Haley will speak.


Trump’s campaign
has confirmed that the convention is still expected to proceed as planned despite the Saturday attempt on Trump’s life. The event will run from July 15 through the 18th in Milwaukeee, Wisconsin.

Heightened security could be seen around the venue on Sunday.

“Multiple layers of security and several perimeters to get through in order to get inside,” Fox News’ Bill Melugin posted to X early Sunday morning from Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.

The security measures currently include many blocks of street closures in all directions surrounding the arena, including K-rail barriers and metal barricades. Additionally, police can be seen “all over,” and there are routine helicopter flyovers.

Fox News’ Paul Steinhauser and Kellianne Jones contributed to this report

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Rep. Bennie Thompson fires staffer who wished Trump shooter had succeeded: ‘Don’t miss next time’

Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-MS, fired a staffer on Sunday for a social media post in which she appeared to wish the assassination attempt against former President Trump had succeeded.

The staffer, Jacqueline Marsaw, wrote that the gunman should have gotten “shooting lessons” so “you don’t miss next time.” Thompson said he ended Marsaw’s employment after he was made aware of the post.

“I don’t condone violence but please get you some shooting lessons so you don’t miss next time ooops that wasn’t me talking,” Marsaw wrote on Facebook.

“I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment,” Thompson confirmed to Fox News.

Marsaw had worked as a field director for Thompson since July 2023. His office released a statement upon hiring her.

“Jacqueline is a member of the NAACP where she has served as the secretary, vice president and president,” the statement read. “Marsaw is a member of the Adams County Democratic Party and coordinates the Black History Parade. She is the former field director for the National Action Network.”

Fox News’ Aishah Hasnie contributed to this report

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Biden reschedules planned trip to Texas for Civil Rights Act anniversary

President Biden is rescheduling a planed trip to Texas which was to take place on Monday, the White House said.

Biden was scheduled to travel to Austin for a White House event commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act during a visit to the LBJ Presidential Library.

The Texas stop was an official White House trip, not a campaign event.

It is unclear whether the Biden campaign will reschedule a planned event in Nevada later this week.

Fox News Digital’s Paul Steinhauser contributed to this update.

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Biden bolsters Secret Service protection for Trump and vows a thorough investigation

President Biden
spoke from the Roosevelt Room at the White House at 1:30 p.m. after he received an updated briefing in the Situation Room from homeland security and law enforcement officials.

During his remarks, Biden said he has directed the U.S. Secret Service to provide Trump “with every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety.”

The president also has instructed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. And he has requested an independent review of the security failures at Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania, which upon completion will be shared with the American people.

“Last night, I spoke with Donald Trump. I’m sincerely grateful that he’s doing well and recovering. We had a short but good conversation. Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers. We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father. He was protecting his family from. The bullets are being fired. He lost his life. God love him,” Biden said.

“We’re also playing for the full recovery of those who were injured. And we’re grateful to the Secret Service agents and other law enforcement agencies who and individuals who risked their lives literally for our nation.

“As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence, for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation.”

Biden called former President Trump after the attempt on Trump’s life. The White House said the call was good, short and respectful.

The president condemned the shooting earlier, calling the attempted assassination of a presidential candidate “sick” and saying that there was “no place in America for this kind of violence.”

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Former classmate describes shooter Thomas Matthew Crook as ‘loner’ who was ‘bullied’

A man who says he went to high school with the attempted assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, described Crooks as a “loner” who was “bullied.” 

Jason Kohler, 21, said Crooks regularly wore hunting outfits to school and was picked on for how he dressed. He said Crooks may have been on the school’s rifle team.

Kohler said he was familiar with Crooks but they were not friends.

Kohler graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2021. Crooks graduated a year later in 2022.

Fox News’ James Levinson contributed to this update. 

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Pennsylvania Governor says Trump rally victim Corey Comperatore was a ‘hero’

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said Sunday he spoke with the wife of Corey Comperatore, a man who was killed Saturday when a gunman attempted to assassinate former President Trump during a rally in Butler. 

“We lost a fellow Pennsylvanian last night,” Shapiro said at a news conference. “Corey Comperatore was a girl dad. Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community, and most especially Corey loves his family. Corey was an avid supporter of the former president and was so excited to be there last night with him in the community. 

“I asked Corey’s wife if it would be okay for me to share that we spoke. She said yes. She also asked that I share with all of you that Corey died a hero, that Corey dove on his family to protect them,” the governor said. 

“Last night at this rally, Corey was the very best of us. May his memory be a blessing.” 

Shapiro concluded his remarks noting that political disagreements “can never, ever be addressed through violence.” 

“Disagreements are okay, but we need to use a peaceful political process to settle those differences,” he said. 

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Attempted Trump assassination spurs bipartisan calls for RFK Jr. to get Secret Service protection

Lawmakers reacted to the attempted assassination of former President Trump with bipartisan condemnation and are now taking steps to demand “accountability” for the “security failure” at his Pennsylvania rally. 

Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., a candidate for U.S. Senate, sent a letter to the U.S. Secret Service on Sunday with several questions about the security failure which led to the death of one rally goer and Trump and two others getting shot. He also asked whether independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., will receive Secret Service protection. 

“Yesterday’s incident, which led to the tragic death of an onlooker and several injuries, including to President Trump, raises grave concerns regarding the security measures – or lack thereof – that were taken to protect a former President of the United States and a Major Presidential Candidate,” wrote Gallego. “I call on all those responsible for the planning, approving, and executing of this failed security plan to be held accountable and to testify before Congress immediately.”

Separately, New York Reps. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat, and Mike Lawler, a Republican, announced plans for bipartisan legislation to provide enhanced Secret Service protection to President Biden, Trump and RFK Jr. 

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Would-be assassin’s gun purchased by suspect’s dad, bomb-making materials reportedly found in home

The firearm used by Thomas Matthew Crooks in the attempt on former President Trump’s life was legally purchased by the suspect’s father, Fox News has confirmed. 

Authorities have recovered the weapon and the family is cooperating with law enforcement, according to sources familiar. 

One source said family had access to several guns and authorities are investigating whether the suspect himself had access to other weapons as well. 

Law enforcement officials told the Associated Press bomb-making materials were found inside Crooks’ car and in his home.

Fox News’ David Spunt contributed to this update.

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Trump rally victim is former fire chief Corey Comperatore, who shielded wife, girls from bullets

Family members identified Corey Comperatore as the rally goer who was killed Saturday in an assassination attempt on former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania. 

Comperatore was a former fire chief for Buffalo Township, local news station WPXI reported. He was shot and killed when Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire on Trump from a sniper’s perch some 130 yards away during the campaign event. Two others were critically injured in the attack, authorities said. 

The victim’s sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer, wrote in a Facebook post that Corey “was a hero that shielded his daughters.” 

“His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable. My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience. Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds. Pray for my sister-in-law, nieces, my mother, sister, me and his nieces and nephews as this feels like a terrible nightmare but we know it is our painful reality,” Schafer wrote. 

Fox News Digital’s Scott McDonald contributed to this update.

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Would-be Trump assassin had explosive devices in his car: WSJ

The man authorities say attempted to assassinate former President Trump had explosives inside his car found parked near the Pennsylvania rally, according to a new report.

Law enforcement discovered the car, which was driven by Thomas Matthew Crooks, parked near the Trump rally in Butler, Pa., The Wall Street Journal reported, citing people briefed on the investigation.

The Journal said authorities dispatched bomb technicians after police received multiple reports of suspicious packages around near where the shooter was located.

Crooks reportedly shot Trump from a rooftop perch some 130 yards away during a rally in the small town, striking the upper part of Trump’s right ear while the former president was speaking to rallygoers ahead of next week’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

One attendee was killed, and two others were injured during the incident, the FBI said
, and Crooks was shot dead. The victims have not been identified yet.

Fox News Digital’s Danielle Wallace and Scott McDonald contributed to this update.

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Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson: Assassination attempt ‘can turn into a moment of healing and unity’

Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wisc., said the attempt on former President Trump’s life “can turn into a moment of healing and unity” for the country if Americans “realize what is at stake.” 

“As President Lincoln said, a house divided against itself cannot stand. I’ve been saying for quite some time, as much as we’re not addressing our debt and deficit issue, I think the greatest threat to America right now is the fact that we’re horribly divided,” Johnson told CNN host Jake Tapper Sunday morning on “State of the Union.” 

Asked about the security measures at Trump’s rally in Butler, Penn., Johnson said there was a “failure” and expressed his belief in the need for congressional oversight hearings following a law enforcement investigation. 

The Wisconsin lawmaker also said that Trump “knew exactly the risks he was taking running for re-election.” But Trump did so anyway because he “loves this country,” Johnson said. 

“And that’s one other thing I would say about his supporters, those rally goers. If there’s one attribute the Trump supporters have in common, they fervently love this country. And so, if the rest of America can understand that about Donald Trump, about the people who support Donald Trump, I think they love this country as well. There’s a good place to start the healing and unification of this country. We need to understand that about each other.” 

Johnson encouraged Americans to “resist” political groups that are “purposely trying to divide us for political advantage.” 

“Don’t let them get away with it, and start talking to each other.” 

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Former first lady Melania Trump speaks out after attempt on her husband’s life

Former first lady Melania Trump released a statement after the attempted assassination of her husband, former President Trump, at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. 

“I am thinking of you, now, my fellow Americans,” Trump wrote. “We have always been a unique union. America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one.” 

“When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron’s life, were on the brink of devastating change. I am grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband.” 

Melania Trump offered her “sincerest sympathy” to the other victims, including the family of the person who died after being shot. 

“A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald’s passion – his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husband’s life – his human side – were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times.” 

“Let us not forget that differing opinions, policy, and political games are inferior to love.” 

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Split-second turn could have saved Trump’s life, expert says

A split-second decision could have saved former President Trump’s life during the shocking assassination attempt at his outdoor campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, according to Israeli Special Operations veteran Aaron Cohen.

Hours after the incident, Cohen told Fox News’ Trace Gallagher that, if the former president had not turned his head when the shot was fired, he would not have survived.

“God must have been watching down on the president,” he said.

“Snipers are typically trained to shoot into the cerebral cortex of the cerebellum at the top of the brain stem. It incapacitates you, it keeps your hands from moving…  It’s about the distance of the shot. One hundred-thirty yards. That’s a putt. Anyone can put a two, two, three, optic on a target from that distance and hit it. It’s not a difficult shot to make…”

He continued, “It’s very clear to me that had the president’s head been straight, and if that round had gone into the ear, it would have been lights out. The fact that he just happened to be turned this way with that shot coming in is what saved his life.”

Fox News Digital’s Taylor Penley contributed to this update.

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Trump campaign launches GoFundMe; Ramaswamy donates $30k

Former President Donald
Trump’s campaign launched a GoFundMe
in support of the victims and their families of the Butler, Pennsylvania, rally shooting.

One rally attendee was killed, and two others were injured. The shooter was killed by the Secret Service. The victims’ names have yet to be revealed.

Trump’s campaign revealed the GoFundMe and the link has been shared across social media platforms in an attempt to promote the $1 million goal of contributions.

Lynne Patton, Senior Advisor to Trump, shared the link to her Instagram story and encouraged social media users to donate.

The page, which was launched by Meredith O’Rourke, Trump’s campaign national finance director, reads: “President Donald Trump has authorized this account as a place for donations to the supporters and families wounded or killed in today’s brutal and horrific assassination attempt. All donations will be directed to these proud Americans as they grieve and recover. May God bless and unite our nation.”

Former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy donated $30,000 to the cause. Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, donated $10,000 to the cause.

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First pictures emerge of Trump shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the shooter who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania, has been pictured for the first time.

Crooks, a 20-year-old man from western Pennsylvania, reportedly shot Trump from a rooftop perch some 130 yards away during a rally in Butler, striking the upper part of Trump’s right ear while the former president was speaking to rallygoers ahead of next week’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The New York Post obtained photographs of Crooks from his high school yearbook and 2022 graduation ceremony. 

U.S. Secret Service agents returned fire upon Crooks and killed him, but not before he got off several rounds directed at Trump. Three members of the crowd were struck, one killed and two others critically injured. 

Photographs taken from the scene of the shooting on Saturday show armed U.S. Secret Service agents standing over Crooks’ body after the assassination attempt. 

Fox News Digital’s Scott McDonald contributed to this update.

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Donald Trump Jr.: ‘My dad would be dead’ if Democrats had won fight over Secret Service protection

Donald Trump Jr. said Sunday his father would be dead if Democrats had succeeded with an attempt to remove Secret Service protection from former President Trump.

“Remember, if @BennieGThompson and the Democrats got their way, my dad would be dead right now. Don’t let them memory hole it,” Trump Jr. posted on X. 

House Democrats introduced a bill earlier this year that would strip Secret Service protection from convicted felons sentenced to prison, a move that directly targeted former President Trump, who was convicted of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York. 

Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., the former chair of the now disbanded Jan. 6 congressional committee, introduced the legislation to automatically nix Secret Service protection for those who have been convicted of a federal or state felony that carries a minimum one-year prison term. 

The proposed bill was provocatively titled the “Denying Infinite Security and Government Resources Allocated toward Convicted and Extremely Dishonorable (DISGRACED) Former Protectees Act.

“My bill would not have affected the Secret Service’s presence during this tragic event. It aims to clarify lines of authority when a protectee is sentenced to prison and is in the custody of another law enforcement agency. That does not apply to the former President,” Thompson told Fox News Digital in a statement.

After former President Trump was shot on Saturday, Thompson released a statement condemning political violence.

“There is no room in American democracy for political violence. I am grateful for law enforcement’s fast response to this incident,” he said.

“I am glad the former President is safe, and my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved.”

Fox News Digital’s Michael Dorgan contributed to this update.

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Trump supporters gather near Mar-a-Lago after rally shooting

Dozens of former President Trump’s supporters gathered outside of Mar-a-Lago on Saturday night after the Republican presidential candidate was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump survived the assassination attempt, but one person in the crowd was shot and killed, and two other spectators were critically injured by multiple shots from the gunman. 

Fox News’ Danamarie McNicholl reported from Mar-a-Lago, where a “sea of red, white and blue supporters” were seen outside of Trump’s residence. 

“I saw him with his fist up, but he’s still here. God bless him,” one woman said. “I don’t know if I could have done it. What a brave, courageous man.” 

Those gathered at Mar-a-Lago joined there hands in prayer for the former president, who was treated for his injuries and is in “good spirits,” according to the Trump campaign. 

The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by authorities, but not before he took a sniper’s position and opened fire on Trump. 

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Trump campaign beefs up security after assassination attempt, RNC convention to continue as planned

Former President Trump’s campaign is reviewing security measures at its D.C. and Florida offices and will increase the number of armed officers on site after the failed attempt on Trump’s life Saturday.

“We are enhancing the armed security presence with 24/7 officers on-site. Additional security assessments will be in place. Our highest priority is to keep all of you on this staff safe,” senior Trump campaign officials Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles wrote in a memo to campaign staff. 

“We also urge you to recognize the political polarization in this heated election. If something looks or feels off, please flag it immediately for leadership or an on-site security team.” 

The campaign expressed hope that the horrific assassination attempt on Trump “will bring our team, and indeed the nation, together in unity.”

LaCivita and Wiles also instructed staff, “Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today. We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media.”

The campaign said the Republican National Committee convention will continue as planned in Milwaukee, Wisc., this week, where Trump will formally be nominated as the Republican candidate for president in 2024. 

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CBS anchor chides Trump statement after assassination attempt

CBS anchor Margaret Brennan was critical of former President Trump’s social media statement after the attempt on his life Saturday evening, saying it didn’t “call for lowering the temperature.”

“He is recovering from these injuries now, this was a traumatic event, no doubt, for him,” Brennan said on CBS News during special coverage of the shooting in Butler, Pa. “But I did notice there was no call for lowering the temperature, condemning all political violence, and really trying to signal to his supporters as well not to retaliate or have any kind of escalation here.”

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump thanked Secret Service and law enforcement for their “rapid response” to the shooting, in addition to offering condolences to the other victims in the case. One other rally attendee was killed, and two others were critically injured, according to reports. The shooter was killed by law enforcement.

“Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured,” Trump wrote. “It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”

Brennan also worried Thursday about the shooting inspiring further violence.

“We want to make clear that this is something we are reporting as a historic event as it unfolds, but we are very mindful that this kind of event can inspire violence, it can inspire retaliation, and we want no part of that,” she said.

Brennan’s remarks drew criticism from conservatives online. She later addressed the comments on the air, saying she had a concern about Americans being “on edge” in the current climate.

Fox News Digital’s David Rutz contributed to this update.

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Would-be assassin Thomas Matthew Crooks’ motives remain unclear, political history mixed

The man identified as former President Trump’s attempted assassin, Thomas Michael Crooks, has a mixed political history and unclear motives. 

Crooks was a registered Republican, according to voting records, but he only participated in the Nov. 8, 2022, state election due to his age. 

Records show he made a $15 donation to Progressive Turnout Project, a Chicago-based political action committee that supports Democrat candidates for public office and claims to advocate for “key Democratic constituencies: young people, minorities and low-income people.” The donation was made on the date of President Biden’s 2021 inauguration, Jan. 20, 2021. 

A law enforcement source told Fox News Crooks’ motive is still not completely clear, but authorities continue to speak with those who knew him. Multiple agencies were seen at his home in Bethel Park. 

The FBI said it will continue its investigation into Crooks and any other information it can obtain.

“This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI,” the statement continued.

Fox News Digital’s Scott McDonald and Fox News’ David Spunt contributed to this update.

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Secret Service responds to claims that Trump team requested additional security and was turned down

Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesman for the U.S. Secret Service, on Sunday said claims that the Trump campaign requested stronger security at his Pennsylvania rally and was denied were “absolutely false.” 

“The assertion that a member of the former President’s security team requested additional security resources that the U.S. Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false.  In fact, recently the U.S. Secret Service added protective resources and capabilities to the former President’s security detail,” Guglielmi said in a statement.

“The former President, and the current President, are commonly subject to threats. The U. S. Secret Service takes threats seriously, and it takes actions based on those threats as warranted. The U.S. Secret Service is constantly evaluating the very dynamic threat environment and responding to it in the fulfillment of its responsibilities.”

In the aftermath of the assassination attempt on former President Trump, a House GOP lawmaker alleged that Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas denied stronger Secret Service protection for the presumptive Republican presidential nominee multiple times. 

Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., made the accusation hours after Trump was grazed by a bullet at his rally on Saturday.

“I have very reliable sources telling me there have been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump. Denied by Secretary Mayorkas,” Waltz wrote on X.

The House Homeland Security Committee is planning on investigating reports that Trump was denied stronger Secret Service protection before the rally, a source told Fox News Digital.

“The Committee has seen these reports, as well, and are going to be conducting thorough oversight into what happened both leading up to and in the immediate aftermath of the attempted assassination of President Trump. Obviously, such reports are deeply troubling and demand investigation,” the source said.

One rally attendee was killed, and two others were injured after a shooter opened fire at the former president’s campaign rally, according to a Secret Service statement. The shooter was also killed.

Fox News’s David Spunt and Fox News Digital’s Elizabeth Elkind contributed to this update.

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Former President Trump thanks supporters for their prayers: ‘God alone… prevented the unthinkable’

Former President Trump issued a new statement Sunday morning after the attempt on his life, thanking the nation for its prayers

“Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. 

“We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

“In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.” 

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Trump rally goers say they flagged shooter to authorities before gunfire started, security was ‘lax’

An eyewitness to the shooting at former President Trump’s Pennsylvania rally said in an interview he saw the shooter moments before gunfire erupted.

Greg Smith told the BBC he and others saw the man “bear crawling” on the roof of a nearby building just outside the event in Butler. 

He said he pointed the suspected shooter out to police. 

“We could clearly see him with a rifle,” Smith said. 

“I’m thinking to myself, ‘Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage’…  the next thing you know, five shots ring out.”

Video from the rally posted to social media shows others spotted the gunman, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, moments before the shots rang out. People could be heard yelling, “He’s got a gun!”

Another eyewitness, Benjamin Shrader, told Fox News Digital that security at the rally was “terrible.” 

“I had to give all my information and security in the special guest section and that was great,” he said. “But overall for the event, the security was extremely lax,” he said. 

Shrader added that the screening for general admission before the event was lacking.

“There were only metal detectors and then a pat down. That was it,” he said. “There was nobody going around the fences and somebody could have easily thrown a gun in.”

The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) later said, in a news release, that the suspected shooter fired from an “elevated position,” killing at least one person and critically injuring two others.

Fox News Digital’s Sarah Rumpf-Whitten and Matteo Cina contributed to this update.

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Suspected Trump assassination attempt shines light on rally security

The assassination attempt, as it is being described by Fox News sources, against former President Trump at his Saturday rally in Pennsylvania is shining light on the security process for those in attendance.

Press and general attendees all go through a rigorous screening process operated by the Secret Service, which includes detailed searches of everyone entering into a rally venue.

The press is screened in a separate que than the public, and are usually told to remove all electronic equipment and metal, similar to the screening process of an airport.

Secret Service, when necessary, relies on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents from nearby towns to help with screening, but its unclear if that was the case for Trump’s Saturday rally.

When a rally is held outside, as was Saturday’s, the Secret Service still sets up tents, tables and magnetometers common at large events.

Trump, as a former president, still has a significant Secret Service detail, and anyone meeting with the president or in proximity must be cleared. Traditionally, this is done with a social security number, date of birth, and other vital information.


Fox News Digital’s Brandon Gillespie and Fox News’ Mark Meredith contributed to this update.

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Potential Trump running mate Sen. JD Vance accuses Biden campaign of inciting violence

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, who is under consideration to be former President Trump’s running mate on the 2024 Republican ticket, accused the Biden campaign of inciting violence against Trump.

Vance wrote in a social media post that the attempt on Trump’s life at a rally in Butler, Penn., on Saturday was “not just some isolated incident.” 

“The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs,” Vance posted on X. 

“That rhetoric led directly to President Trump’s attempted assassination.”

Another potential Trump vice presidential candidate, Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., likewise said rhetoric from the left was to blame for the shooting. 

“Let’s be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse,” he wrote on social media.

The FBI is investigating the assassination attempt and has not yet revealed a potential motive. 

Posted by Chris Pandolfo Share

Here’s what the Secret Service said about the attempt on Trump’s life

The chief of communications for the U.S. Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, put out a statement on the shooting incident at Trump’s rally Saturday evening. 

“During former President Trump’s campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on the evening of July 13th at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue,” he said. “US Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated. One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured. The incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of investigation.”

The House Oversight Committee
has called on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify to Congress about the security failure at Trump’s rally as part of an investigation into the attempt on Trump’s life.  

Fox News Digital’s Brooke Singman and Elizabeth Elkind contributed to this update.

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Trump says he was ‘shot with a bullet’ in assassination attempt at Pennsylvania rally

Former President Trump confirmed he was “shot with a bullet” that “pierced” the upper part of his right ear at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. 

Gunfire broke out at the Trump rally shortly after the former president began speaking at the Butler Farm Show grounds.

The attack on the former president is being investigated as an assassination attempt, according to Fox News sources.

Trump put out a statement on his Truth Social account Saturday evening. 

“I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania,” Trump said. “Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country.” 

“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,” the former president said. “I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.” 

The former president added that “much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.” 

“GOD BLESS AMERICA!” he said. 

Fox News Digital’s Brooke Singman contributed to this update.

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FBI identifies shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks

The FBI has
identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old man from western Pennsylvania, as the person who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Crooks reportedly shot Trump during a rally in the small town, striking the upper part of Trump’s right ear while the former president was speaking to rallygoers ahead of next week’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

One attendee was killed and two others were injured during the incident, the agency said, and Crooks was shot dead. The victims have not been identified yet.

“The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania,” the FBI said in a statement to Fox News Digital. “This remains an active and ongoing investigation.”

Crooks, 20, was from Bethel Park, which is a Pittsburgh suburb about an hour south from where the assassination attempt took place. 

Crooks reportedly graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. He was one of nearly two dozen students from the school to earn a $500 “star award” from the National Math and Science Initiative.

A search by Fox News Digital revealed Crooks would have turned 21 years old this September. He had no reported criminal or traffic citations and no reported bankruptcies, liens or foreclosures.

Crooks was a registered Republican, according to voting records, but had only participated in the Nov. 8, 2022, state election due to his age. Voting records also don’t detail who a person votes for.

The FBI says it will continue its investigation into Crooks and any other information it can obtain.

Fox News Digital’s Scott McDonald and Landon Mion contributed to this update.

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House Democrat calls out his own party for fear-stoking rhetoric about Trump

Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, penned a lengthy thread on X about the hyperbole in American politics, urging politicians to stop framing their opponents as “fascists.”

The vulnerable Democrat congressman took to X to denounce the current path that he says the country is on, adding that leaders need to guide America down a different one.

“We can start by dropping hyperbolic threats about the stakes of this election,” he wrote. “It should not be misleadingly portrayed as a struggle between democracy or authoritarianism or a battle against fascists or socialists bent on destroying America. These are dangerous lies.”

SENATE HOMELAND SECURITY COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE TRUMP ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT AND SECURITY FAILURE

Former President Trump was the target of an assassination attempt at his Butler, Pennsylvania, rally on Saturday. Shots were fired around 6 p.m., just minutes after Trump took the stage. Blood could be seen on Trump’s right ear and face as Secret Service agents escorted him from the stage.

Trump was treated for a wound on his ear at a local hospital before returning to his residence in New Jersey. Both the gunman and a rallygoer were killed. Others are injured and receiving care in the hospital.

RNC’S SECRET SERVICE CLASH THRUST BACK INTO SPOTLIGHT AFTER DEADLY TRUMP RALLY SHOOTING

Lawmakers quickly issued statements praying for Trump’s safety and that of attendees. 

“Following the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, we must ask ourselves questions about the future of our country and what we want for ourselves and our children,” Golden wrote on X in a 10-part thread. 

GOP PRAYS FOR TRUMP AFTER SHOTS FIRED, FORMER PRESIDENT RUSHED OFF STAGE

“In the pursuit of short-term political gain, they are eager to exaggerate our differences and cast their political opponents as diabolical caricatures bent on destroying the country,” he said in reference to those leading the country. 

Per the lawmaker, “The result is an overwhelming sense of fear & anxiety about the future of our country, where the normal and tested tools of democracy no longer seem adequate to protect the common good. In this light, a rise of politically motivated violence in America is sadly unsurprising.”

TRUMP JR SAYS FATHER ‘IN GREAT SPIRITS’ AT HOSPITAL AFTER SHOTS FIRED DURING PA RALLY

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According to the Maine Democrat, it would be “disastrous” to continue this way. Instead, the hyperbole must be stopped, he said, condemning the framing of political opponents as fascists, authoritarians and socialists.

The Democrat is fighting for re-election in a very competitive Maine district in the November election. Nonpartisan political handicapper Cook Political Report rated his seat as a “Democrat Toss Up.”

Democrat lawmaker fires staffer for vile post after Trump assassination attempt

A staff member of Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson is “no longer” in the congressman’s employment after allegedly posting “don’t miss next time,” after the apparent assassination attempt on former President Trump on Saturday evening.

“I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment,” Mississippi Rep. Bennie Thompson said in a statement.

The post, which has since been deleted, was allegedly posted by Thompson’s now-former field director Jacqueline Marsaw. The post read, “I don’t condone violence but please get you some shooting lessons so you don’t miss next time ooops that wasn’t me talking.”

Trump had just begun speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening when a gunman on a nearby roof outside the venue fired multiple shots toward the stage.

LIVE UPDATES: FORMER PRESIDENT TRUMP SURVIVES ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT, FBI IDs SHOOTER AS THOMAS MATTHEW CROOKS

Trump was seen hitting the deck as Secret Service agents rushed the stage to surround the former president. Moments later, a bloodied Trump stood up and pumped his fist before the agents escorted him off the stage.

At least one rally attendee was killed, and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. The man killed was identified as 50-year-old firefighter Corey Comperatore.

EMOTIONAL GRAHAM DELIVERS MESSAGE OF ‘LOVE’ FOR TRUMP, SAYS US NEEDS ‘SOUL-SEARCHING’

There were multiple calls for Thompson to fire the staffer following the social media post.

Marsaw joined Thompson’s staff in July 2023. She is a native of Natchez, Mississippi, and an alumna of Jackson State University. She served as secretary, vice president and president of her local NAACP and as the former field director for the National Action Network. 

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Thompson chairs the Homeland Security Committee. As Trump was on trial in New York City, he introduced legislation to block Secret Service protection for anyone sentenced to prison.

Trump praised by several celebrities after assassination attempt

Donald Trump is being applauded by several celebrities after the former president was the target of an assassination attempt on Saturday.

Trump was clipped in the ear with a bullet that authorities say was fired by Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Political leaders, sports legends and now several celebrities are commenting on the scary event.

SPORTS STARS REACT TO SHOOTING AT DONALD TRUMP RALLY

Jason Aldean

“This is what a Warrior looks like! This is MY guy,” country singer Jason Aldean wrote beneath a photo of a bloodied Trump thrusting his fist in the air at his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday. “[Donald Trump] we are thinking about [you] and praying for you and your family. God has a bigger plan for you my friend and I think we all know what that is by now.”

He added, “My heart goes out to the victims families as well. They are the ones left to pick up the pieces of this cowardly act.”

Model, rapper and expected RNC speaker Amber Rose shared the same photo on her Instagram, writing, “Never stop fighting.”

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Kid Rock

“You f– with Trump, you f— with me,” Kid Rock said in video shared on his social media. The singer, whose real name is Robert James Ritchie, also shared a link to a GoFundMe page for victims of the shooting, which at the time of publication had raised over $2 million.

John Rich

“The angels of the Lord encamp around those who fear Him, and delivers them”. -Psalm 34:7,” John Rich wrote to his X account, quoting scripture. “Somewhere, there’s an angel with a bullet hole through his wing. Thank you Lord for protecting DJT,” he wrote.

George Strait

In video shared to TikTok, country legend George Strait can be seen singing praises for first responders in the wake of the assassination attempt during a concert in Detroit. 

“Thank you for coming when we need you, when we call you, appreciate that very much. Especially after today,” he said.

The audience could be heard chanting “USA” in response to Strait’s comments.

Tim Robbins

Actor and director Tim Robbins (“The Shawshank Redemption,” “Mystic River,” “Top Gun”) condemned anyone that compared the assassination attempt of Trump to his satirical film, “Bob Roberts,” released in 1992. The film follows a conservative businessman running for the Senate that is also shot at.

“To anyone drawing a parallel between my film Bob Roberts and the attempted assassination of Trump, let’s be clear. What happened yesterday was a real attempt on a presidential candidate’s life. Those that are denying the assassination attempt was real are truly in a deranged mindset. A human being was shot yesterday. Another killed. They may not be human beings that you agree with politically but for shame folks. Get over your blind hatred of these people. They are fellow Americans. This collective hatred is killing our souls and consuming whatever is left of our humanity,” he wrote to X.

Mike ‘The Situation’ Sorrentino

Mike ‘The Situation’ Sorrentino of “Jersey Shore” fame, who posed for a picture with the former president and UFC founder Dana White at an event last month, wrote “Praying for our country,” to X.

50 Cent

Curtis James Jackson III, known professionally as 50 Cent, shared a meme of Trump’s head photoshopped onto the cover art of his debut album, “Get Rich Or Die Tryin‘,” released in 2003. 

“Trump gets shot and now I’m trending,” the rapper wrote to X.

The rapper recently shared that he believes Trump will be re-elected to the Oval Office come November.

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Savannah Chrisley

Reality star Savannah Chrisley reposted several Trump-related posts to her Instagram stories. She also shared a photo of Trump beneath the cover of Secret Service agents, writing, “Willing to give his life.”

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FLASHBACK: Dem said it was ‘necessary’ to strip Trump of Secret Service detail

House Democrats have introduced a bill that would strip Secret Service protection from convicted felons sentenced to prison, a move directly targeting former President Trump who is currently on criminal trial in New York City for alleged hush money payments made during the 2016 election campaign and faces several other cases which could land him behind bars.

Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., the former chair of the now disbanded Jan. 6 congressional committee, introduced legislation that would automatically nix Secret Service protection for those who have been convicted of a federal or state felony that carries a minimum one-year prison term. 

The proposed bill is provocatively called the “Denying Infinite Security and Government Resources Allocated toward Convicted and Extremely Dishonorable (DISGRACED) Former Protectees Act.

NY AG LETITIA JAMES ASKS JUDGE TO VOID TRUMP’S $175M BOND IN CIVIL FRAUD CASE

“Unfortunately, current law doesn’t anticipate how Secret Service protection would impact the felony prison sentence of a protected – even a former President,” Thompson said in a statement. 

“It is regrettable that it has come to this, but this previously unthought-of scenario could become our reality.”

A so-called “fact sheet” accompanying Thompson’s statement notes that Trump is facing an “unprecedented 91 felony charges in federal and state courts” which have “created a new exigency that Congress must address to ensure Secret Service protection does not interfere with the criminal judicial process and the administration of justice.”

The one-page document also states that the bill would apply to former President Trump should he be convicted of a felony, as well as to all Secret Service protectees convicted and sentenced under felony charges.

It notes that current law does not contemplate how Secret Service security would be administered to a protectee serving jail time and it therefore may pose logistical difficulties for both the Secret Service and prison authorities.

TWO SEATED JURORS DISMISSED AS SELECTION PROCESS CONTINUES FOR DAY 3 OF TRUMP HUSH MONEY TRIAL

The proposed bill, Thompson says, would avoid such complications with incarcerating former President Trump should he be ordered to serve jail time.

“Therefore, it is necessary for us to be prepared and update the law so the American people can be assured that protective status does not translate into special treatment – and that those who are sentenced to prison will indeed serve the time required of them,” Thompson said.

It would also address suggestions that any potential conviction of Trump would likely result in some form of home confinement rather than prison time, given his Secret Service protection.

“This bill would remove the potential for conflicting lines of authority within prisons and allow judges to weigh the sentencing of individuals without having to factor in the logistical concerns of convicts with Secret Service protection,” the document states.  

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Secret Service protection is afforded to current presidents and their family members as well as former presidents and other high level officials. Protection was expanded to major party presidential nominees following the assassination of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, although his son has not been provided with Secret Service protection for his 2024 independent run. 

As well as the hush money trial, Trump is charged in Georgia with trying to overturn the 2020 election in a racketeering case. He also has upcoming trials in Florida over his alleged hoarding of classified White House documents and in Washington, D.C., where he is accused of conspiring to overturn the results of his election loss.

He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Would-be Trump assassin reportedly had bomb-making materials in vehicle

The man authorities say attempted to assassinate former President Trump had explosives inside his car, found parked near the Pennsylvania rally, and bomb making materials at his home, sources tell Fox News. 

There were explosives, including an IED, found inside a car driven by Thomas Matthew Crooks found parked near the scene of the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, sources confirmed to Fox News. 

The sources could not say how many explosives or what kind, but emphasized that more than one was found. 

In Crooks’ house, law enforcement found bomb-making materials, the sources told Fox News. 

WHO WAS THOMAS MATTHEW CROOKS? WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT TRUMP’S ATTEMPTED ASSASSIN

The sources could not immediately say whether the materials found at the home rose to the level of explosive devices, as well, at this stage of the investigation. 

The Wall Street Journal first reported, citing people briefed on the investigation, that law enforcement discovered the car, driven by Crooks, parked near the rally. 

The Journal said authorities dispatched bomb technicians after police received multiple reports of suspicious packages near where the shooter was located. 

The newspaper’s sources added that investigators remained at the scene well into the night to make sure it was clear and also conducted a search of Crooks’ home and spoke with his family.

Law enforcement officials told the Associated Press that bomb-making materials were found inside Crooks’ vehicle and bomb-making materials were also found at his home. The two officials were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Investigators believe the firearm Crooks used had been purchased by Crooks’ father at least six months ago, two law enforcement officials told the AP. Federal agents were still working to understand when and how his son obtained the gun, and to gather additional information about Crooks, according to the officials.

The FBI early Sunday identified Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, “as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania.” 

The bureau said the investigation remains active and ongoing and encourages anyone with information to submit photos or videos online at fbi.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

TRUMP SHOOTING WITNESS SAYS HE WARNED AUTHORITIES OF GUNMAN CRAWLING ONTO ROOF BEFORE ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT

Crooks reportedly shot at Trump from a rooftop perch some 130 yards away during a rally in the small town, striking the upper part of Trump’s right ear while the former president was speaking to rallygoers. It happened ahead of the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to kick off on Monday in Milwaukee. 

An FBI official said investigators had not yet determined a motive.

Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks. The gunman attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler, the agency said.

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One attendee was killed, and two spectators were critically wounded, authorities said. All were identified as men. Family members later identified Corey Comperatore as the rally goer who was killed Saturday. He reportedly was a former fire chief for Buffalo Township, and died while shielding his wife and daughters from the gunfire.  

Business leaders respond to attempted assassination of former President Trump

Business leaders around the U.S. are reacting with shock, sorrow and prayers to the attempted assassination of former President Trump during a campaign rally Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Trump was grazed by a bullet that pierced his upper right ear after he turned to his right while addressing the crowd from a podium at the event. One attendee, Corey Comperatore, was killed in the shooting while two other rallygoers were wounded.

The shooter, who has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by law enforcement personnel. Authorities haven’t disclosed a motive for the shooting and the investigation is ongoing.

GOFUNDME ‘AUTHORIZED’ BY TRUMP FOR BUTLER, PA, VICTIMS EXCEEDS $2.5M, VIVEK RAMASWAMY DONATES $30K

The act of political violence elicited responses from several prominent U.S. business leaders and executives as well as leading trade groups. Here’s a look at their reactions to the attempted assassination:

Apple CEO Tim Cook

Apple CEO Tim Cook wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter: “I pray for President Trump’s rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence.”

Entrepreneur Mark Cuban

Cuban, a billionaire investor and longtime Trump critic, wrote in a post on X in the immediate aftermath of the attempted assassination that he hoped “the former President is Ok and no one else was injured” and that authorities would “catch the idiot who did this. This is not the way.” He also expressed gratitude to the “Secret Service who put themselves” in harm’s way to protect the former president.

After reports emerged about the death of one of the rallygoers who was shot in the assassination attempt, Cuban wrote: “This is heartbreaking. Hopefully there is a way we can help support this person and their family.”

Cuban also warned followers and social media users to beware of scams being carried out by fraudsters using fake accounts and bots to capitalize on the public’s reaction and sympathy with victims, writing, “When tragedy and horrific events like the assassination attempt on former President Trump happens, it brings out these accounts to make things worse and grift.”

TRUMP ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT STIRS MEMORIES OF SIMILAR ATTACK ON REAGAN

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon

“We are deeply saddened by the political violence and the assassination attempt on former President Trump last evening,” JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon wrote in a message to all of JPMorgan Chase’s employees on Sunday, per a report by CNBC.

“On behalf of our entire leadership team, our thoughts today are with the former President, his family and the families of those who were tragically injured and killed,” Dimon continued. “We must stand firmly together against any acts of hate, intimidation or violence that seek to undermine our democracy or inflict harm. It is only through constructive dialogue that we can tackle our nation’s toughest challenges.”

AMAZON FOUNDER JEFF BEZOS SAYS TRUMP SHOWED ‘GRACE AND COURAGE’ IN RESPONSE TO ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT

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MSFT MICROSOFT CORP. 453.70 -0.99 -0.22%
JPM JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. 204.94 -2.48 -1.20%
AMZN AMAZON.COM INC. 194.49 -0.56 -0.29%
AAPL APPLE INC. 230.54 +2.97 +1.31%

Amazon co-founder Jeff Bezos & CEO Andy Jassy

Billionaire Amazon co-founder and entrepreneur Jeff Bezos, who has sparred with Trump over political issues in the past decade, praised the former president’s response to the assassination attempt in a post on X.

“Our former President showed tremendous grace and courage under literal fire tonight. So thankful for his safety and so sad for the victims and their families,” Bezos wrote Saturday on X.

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy wrote in a post Saturday, “It’s hard to digest what happened in Pennsylvania today. Just awful. My thoughts go out to the victims’ families. Glad that President Trump is safe and hoping he recovers quickly.”

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella

“There is simply no place for any type of violence in our society. Sending my best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery and to all those impacted by today’s horrific event,” Nadella wrote on X.

ELON MUSK SAYS HE ‘FULLY ENDORSES’ TRUMP AFTER GUNFIRE AT PENNSYLVANIA RALLY

Tesla CEO Elon Musk

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk – who recently donated to a super PAC supporting former President Trump, according to a report by Bloomberg – announced his support for Trump’s presidential campaign in the wake of the attempted assassination.

“I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery,” Musk wrote Saturday in a post on X.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg

Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta, posted on Instagram’s text app Threads: “Praying for a quick recovery for President Trump. This is such a sad day for our country. Political violence undermines democracy and must always be condemned.”

BILLIONAIRE BILL ACKMAN PUBLICLY ENDORSES TRUMP FOLLOWING ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT

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BLK BLACKROCK INC. 827.97 +3.10 +0.38%
META META PLATFORMS INC. 498.12 -14.58 -2.84%
TSLA TESLA INC. 248.23 +7.20 +2.99%

BlackRock

The world’s largest asset manager, BlackRock, released a statement Sunday on the assassination attempt:

“The assassination attempt on former President Trump is abhorrent. We’re thankful former President Trump wasn’t seriously injured, and thinking about all the innocent bystanders and victims of this awful act, especially the person who was killed. As our leadership team communicated to colleagues last night, BlackRock strongly condemns political violence of any kind and will do our part to promote civility and unity in the country.”

The statement also explained the appearance of Crooks in an ad the company produced two years ago: “In 2022, we ran an ad featuring a teacher from Bethel Park High School, in which several unpaid students briefly appeared in the background, including Thomas Matthew Crooks. We will make all video footage available to the appropriate authorities, and we have removed the video from circulation out of respect for the victims.”

TRUMP RALLY VICTIM IDENTIFIED AS COREY COMPERATORE, ‘HERO’ SHIELDED WIFE AND GIRLS FROM BULLETS

Investor Bill Ackman

Billionaire Bill Ackman, the founder of Pershing Square Capital Management, wrote a lengthy post on X announcing that he is endorsing former President Trump in this year’s presidential election.

“I came to this decision some time ago as many @X followers have already understood from my supportive posts of Trump and my criticisms of @POTUS Biden,” Ackman wrote. “The reason why I have not yet formally done so is that I want to explain my thinking in detail and address the arguments put forth by others against Trump.”

He added that he plans to explain his rationale for endorsing Trump in a “long-form” post but that “I just haven’t had the time nor felt the urgency” to write it before the assassination attempt.

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Chamber of Commerce

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the largest business trade group in the country, released a statement Saturday that read: “We are relieved to hear that President Trump is safe following the shooting at his rally, and we are deeply saddened by the impact on the innocent attendees, including the tragic loss of life. There is no place in our democracy for acts of violence. Now, more than ever, we must unite as a country and uphold the democratic values that define us as a nation.”

Business Roundtable

The Business Roundtable, a group of CEOs at leading U.S. companies, released a statement Saturday that said: “We mourn the loss of innocent life and are relieved that President Trump is safe. We call on all Americans to reject political violence and to commit to resolving political differences peacefully.”

Melania Trump’s call to ‘ascend above the hate’ should be rallying cry for all Americans

Two days before the opening of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, an assassination attempt on former President Donald J. Trump shocked the nation. The picture of a bloodied Trump pumping his fist in the air as Secret Service agents rush him off the stage will be indelibly burned into American minds for a very long time. 

President Trump’s comments on Truth Social the evening of the shooting were calm and thoughtful, thanking the Secret Service and law enforcement, and extending condolences to the families of a rally attendee who was killed and the others who were seriously injured. 

In a chilling account he wrote, “I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.” He had nothing else to say except for a heartfelt, “GOD BLESS AMERICA!”

BIDEN VOWS SECRET SERVICE WILL PROVIDE TRUMP WITH ‘EVERY RESOURCE’ TO ENSURE ‘CONTINUED SAFETY’

I spoke to President Trump on the phone on Sunday, and he told me that bringing the country together was a big part of the message he wanted to deliver now. He mentioned throwing out “a tough speech on Democrats,” reworking it to fit his new intention. 

The last time we faced such a terrifying picture was in 1981, when a gunman tried to assassinate President Reagan. Jerry Parr, the Secret Service agent who shoved Reagan into the car to get him out of danger before he even knew he was injured, once said that being president is dangerous. That would include former presidents. But does it have to be that way? 

What do we do with our sense of horror? A lesson about that comes from our former first lady Melania Trump. By way of comparison with Mrs. Trump, I couldn’t help thinking about Jackie Kennedy in her blood-soaked pink suit the day JFK was assassinated some 60 years ago. Various people, including Lyndon Johnson, encouraged her to change into clean clothes, but she refused. She said, “Let them see what they’ve done!”

That anger and desire for retribution is a natural response, but I was struck by the way Mrs. Trump set a tone that was both deeply personal and healing for the nation. 

MELANIA TRUMP CALLS FOR COUNTRY TO ‘REUNITE’ FOLLOWING NEAR-ASSASSINATION

She began with a moving account of her horror and sorrow. “When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron’s life were on the brink of devastating change. I am grateful to the brave Secret Service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband… 

“A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald’s passion—his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husband’s life—his human side—were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times.”

But then Mrs. Trump pivoted to what we shared as human beings and as a people—and our joint obligation to rise above our political differences. 

“Let us not forget that differing opinions, policy, and political games are inferior to love. Our personal, structural, and life commitment – until death – is at serious risk. Political concepts are simple when compared to us, human beings…

“This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence. We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends. We can realize this world again. Each of us must demand to get it back. We must insist that respect fills the cornerstone of our relationships, again.”

TRUMP ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT STIRS MEMORIES OF SIMILAR ATTACK ON REAGAN

I applaud Mrs. Trump’s dignity and her sense of public responsibility. Many others from both sides of the political frontier have expressed a similar desire.

In a Saturday evening editorial, even as the assassination attempt was fresh and emotions were still raw, the Wall Street Journal posed the possibility that the incident could be “a redemptive political moment.” While commending President Trump for his “fortitude,” the Journal urged him to use the moment as a time to call for unity. 

DEMS NEED TO STOP WITH ‘EXISTENTIAL THREAT’ RHETORIC ABOUT TRUMP: FORMER AG BARR

“His opportunity now is to present himself as someone who can rise above the attack on his life and unite the country,” the Journal wrote. 

The editors also warned both parties to stop describing the stakes of the election in apocalyptic terms. “Democracy won’t end if one or the other candidate is elected. Fascism is not aborning if Mr. Trump wins, unless you have little faith in American institutions.” 

This point was also expressed by former Attorney General Bill Barr who called upon Democrats to stop referring to President Trump as an existential threat to democracy—a claim he called “grossly irresponsible.”

It was like a hard jolt to our public consciousness—a wakeup call that asked, “What are we doing here?” 

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There has been so much vitriol and demonization in our public debate, and we may have reached a tipping point, when people are finally willing to rein it in. Many voices from both sides of the aisle are echoing that plea. 

Speaking Saturday night, President Biden called the attack “sick,” and stated, “There’s no place in America for this kind of violence.” 

He repeated that message Sunday afternoon, emphasizing, “Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is as important as that right now…We’ll debate and we’ll disagree, but we’re not going to lose sight of who we are as Americans.” 

President Trump sent a message on Truth Social after Biden’s comments, saying simply, “UNITE AMERICA.”

Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called the shooting “a despicable attack on a peaceful rally,” also stressing, “Violence has no place in our politics.”

These calls for unity echo what I hear every week on my “Common Ground” podcast as I host public officials from both sides of the aisle respectfully debating their differences. But now we are all facing together the question: What would it mean to back up these calls for unity with real action—to make them more than a post-trauma response that pays lip service to the need to come together? 

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Is there a way to restore civility even as we fiercely debate different positions on the issues? 

This is a critical moment when we have the choice to do that. As we move into the political convention period with the opening of the Republican Convention on Monday, we can all use that strong reality check from Melania Trump and heed her call to “ascend above the hate.”

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