Trump Defiant in Wake of Assassination Attempt, Insists on Continuing Outdoor Rallies
Former President Donald Trump has announced his decision to keep holding outdoor rallies, despite an attempted assassination and repeated advisories from the Secret Service.
Trump was shot in the ear during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, but remains resolute in promoting free speech and public gatherings, pledging to continue his trademark outdoor events, as the Daily Mail reports.
On Saturday morning, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to reaffirm his commitment to outdoor rallies, noting that a bullet will not deter him from continuing with his planned events. In his emphatic statement, Trump wrote, "I will continue to do outdoor rallies, and Secret Service has agreed to substantially step up their operation."
He further expressed that the Secret Service is capable of ensuring his safety, emphasizing that no one should impede the right to free speech or assembly.
Trump’s Reaction After Incident
Trump revealed plans to return to Butler, Pennsylvania, for a rally honoring the late firefighter Corey Comperatore and other victims of the shooting. Although the specific date has not been disclosed, Trump described the upcoming event as a celebration of bravery and resilience.
Two weeks ago, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump was grazed in the ear, Comperatore was killed, and two others were critically injured.
FBI and Secret Service Under Scrutiny
The FBI has taken charge of the investigation but has yet to receive a victim statement from Trump. AgencyDirector Christopher Wray hinted that there are ongoing questions about whether Trump was struck by a bullet or shrapnel.
In response to speculation about the nature of his injury, Trump insisted that it was indeed a bullet that hit his ear, challenging any contrary suggestions.
Trump Questions Security Measures
Trump has criticized the Secret Service for failing to act on multiple warnings about the gunman before he took the stage.
During a conversation with Jesse Watters on Fox News, Trump conveyed his frustration over the oversight, suggesting that he should have been alerted to potential dangers. He also expressed concern about how Crooks managed to reach the roof with the weapon unnoticed.
Security Breach Details Emerge
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle faced intense questioning from Congress about the security failures at the rally.
Cheatle acknowledged that agents had been warned several times about a suspicious individual before Trump took the stage. Despite these warnings, no actions were taken to secure the safety of the former president, an oversight Trump described as a significant mistake and a situation that ultimately led to her resignation.
Immediate Aftermath and Health Concerns
Since the shooting on July 13, Trump has been conducting all his campaign events indoors.
Notably, Trump wore a large white bandage over his ear at the Republican National Convention, later switching to a flesh-colored band-aid for several days.
His former White House physician, Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX), released a health report indicating that Trump will undergo further evaluations and follow-up appointments as he continues his recovery.
Upcoming Rallies and Summary
Trump led a rally in St. Cloud, Minnesota on Saturday and has announced plans for another on Wednesday in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Despite the challenges posed by his recent ordeal, Trump remains unwavering in his pledge to continue outdoor rallies, bolstered by heightened security measures.
Reiterating his commitment on Truth Social, Trump assured his supporters about his upcoming Butler event, "What a day it will be -- fight, fight, fight! Stay tuned for details."
The FBI investigation continues to probe every facet of the assassination attempt, scrutinizing both the actions taken and the lapses that allowed the incident to occur.
Trump’s determination to uphold the values of free speech and public gatherings remains undiminished as he navigates the complexities of campaign security and public appearances.