In a national call for unity and heightened security, President Biden has increased protection for former President Trump after a harrowing assassination attempt according to The New York Post.
At a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped a potentially fatal incident when he was grazed by a bullet. The event took place on Saturday night and has since stirred a significant response from both local authorities and national leadership.
Trump, while addressing his supporters, reacted swiftly to the sound of gunfire—his quick movement allowing him to evade a more severe injury as the bullet only grazed his upper ear.
The situation escalated quickly, marked by panic among the crowd.
The gunman, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Cook, tragically killed one audience member during the assassination attempt. This individual, a father, was reportedly trying to protect his family from the chaos that ensued. The local police had a chance to intercept Cook moments before the shooting from a rooftop but were unable to prevent the assault.
In response to this violent act, President Joe Biden promptly addressed the nation from the Roosevelt Room of the White House. The speech came the day after the attack on Sunday, July 14, 2022. Biden's words were heavy with concern and a forward-looking resolution for stringent security measures.
Biden's immediate reaction was to consult with the Secret Service to ramp up security around Trump. He ensured that the former president received comprehensive protection and announced the launch of an independent national security review to dissect the failures that allowed the incident to occur.
During his address from the Oval Office, President Biden emphasized the intolerability of violence in the political sphere.
"Look, there’s no place in America for this kind of violence. It’s sick. It’s one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening," Biden stated, highlighting the urgency of restoring peace and order.
This assault prompted a drastic change in President Biden's weekend plans, leading him to return to Washington, D.C., from Delaware.
He also postponed a scheduled trip to Texas, underlining the gravity of the situation and his commitment to national security.
Meanwhile, Trump shared a succinct online message following his close call and after Biden’s address. Though brief, it was a clear acknowledgment of the incident and his ongoing safety.
In a light set of recent events, President Biden made a point to express his relief over Trump’s condition, stating his gratitude that the former president was doing "well" amidst such turmoil.
Additionally, Biden extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the slain audience member, acknowledging the profound loss they faced.
As part of his administrative response, President Biden has directed an independent review of national security protocols at political rallies.
"I’ve directed an independent review of 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," he announced, ensuring transparency in the process.
Trump is expected to make a public appearance at the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
The event, which starts Monday, will proceed but with significantly enhanced security measures to prevent further such incidents.
The assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has unified the national leadership in a call for increased security and a comprehensive review of event safety protocols.
This incident not only highlights the risks faced by political figures but also ignites a broader discussion about the nature of violence in American politics. President Biden’s swift action aims to bolster national unity, enhance security, and ensure the safety of all political figures amidst America’s charged political climate.