Donald Trump’s top aides feared he was shot five times during Butler assassination attempt: There wa… –
The Butler Incident: A Turning Point in Trump’s 2024 Campaign
The near-fatal shooting of then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2023, irrevocably altered the course of his 2024 campaign. This dramatic event, detailed in an exclusive excerpt from the forthcoming book, 2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America, transformed Trump’s image from controversial candidate to resilient survivor.
The Assassination Attempt: A Hair’s Breadth from Tragedy
A Sniper’s Shot
The incident unfolded during a campaign rally. As Trump left the stage, a 20-year-old sniper, Thomas Matthew Crooks, positioned approximately 100 yards away on a rooftop, fired a shot. The bullet’s trajectory was aimed directly at Trump. The immediate response from the Secret Service was swift and decisive; agents tackled Trump to the ground, whisking him away from danger before further shots could be fired. The chaos that ensued was terrifying for everyone present.
The Aftermath: A Scene of Intense Trauma
The book paints a vivid picture of the aftermath. Trump, still in his suit, was found sitting up in bed, a bandage covering a wound to his ear. The extent of the bleeding was alarming; the sheer volume of blood led his aides to believe he’d sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Trump himself later described the blood loss as “bleeding like a b****,” highlighting the severity of the situation.
Trump’s Unwavering Resilience
Humor in the Face of Adversity
Despite the gravity of the situation, Trump’s reaction was surprisingly resilient. Within hours, he began cracking jokes, easing the tension in the otherwise somber hospital room. His aides, initially shaken, were reassured by his upbeat demeanor. This unexpected display of humor became a defining moment, showcasing a mental fortitude that extended far beyond his physical recovery.
A Symbol of Survival
The near-death experience instantly reshaped Trump’s public image. He transitioned from a mere political candidate to a symbol of survival, strength, and unwavering determination. This dramatic shift in perception resonated powerfully with his supporters and unexpectedly influenced even some of his harshest critics.
The Ripple Effect: Political Shifts and Unexpected Alliances
A Campaign Transformed
The narrative of Trump’s campaign underwent a complete metamorphosis. The focus shifted from policy debates to the compelling story of survival against insurmountable odds. This resonated deeply with his base, solidifying their support and galvanizing their belief in his leadership. His campaign, initially struggling, experienced a significant surge in support following the incident.
Unexpected Support from Former Critics
Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of the aftermath was the unexpected shift in opinion from some of Trump’s most vocal detractors. High-profile figures like Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg, previously antagonistic towards Trump, publicly revised their assessments. Bezos, notably, commented on Trump’s inherent strength and even expressed a desire for a friendship. Zuckerberg, equally impressed, described Trump’s post-shooting fist pump as “one of the most badass things” he’d ever witnessed.
A Brief Moment of Bipartisanship
Even President Joe Biden, Trump’s political rival, reached out following the shooting. Despite their recent heated debates, Biden initiated a brief, albeit awkward, phone call to check on Trump’s well-being. This unexpected act of political courtesy, however brief, served as a poignant symbol of unity in the face of tragedy.
The Importance of Family and Recovery
Upon his discharge from the hospital, Trump was met by his wife, Melania, at their Bedminster, New Jersey estate. Their reunion was deeply emotional, with Melania offering unwavering support. This moment of vulnerability highlighted the critical role of family in Trump’s recovery, both emotionally and physically.
Conclusion: A Defining Chapter
The Butler shooting stands as a pivotal moment in Donald Trump’s political journey. What began as a near-fatal event became the cornerstone of a remarkable comeback narrative. His survival, coupled with his resilience and rapid recovery, irrevocably altered the trajectory of his 2024 campaign. Regardless of the final election outcome, the Butler incident will forever remain a defining chapter in Trump’s political saga, highlighting the unpredictable nature of American politics and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
