Former President Trump announces plans to return to Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was the target of an assassination attempt in July, during a wide-ranging interview with Elon Musk on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Former President Trump revealed his intention to revisit Butler, Pennsylvania, in October during his hour-long conversation with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on X. The announcement comes after an assassination attempt on July 13 at a rally intended for the former president.
Trump emphasized the significance of revisiting Butler, stating that he has connected with the families of the victims: Corey Comperatore, who lost his life; David Dutch, a Marine veteran seriously injured; and James Copenhaver, another attendee who sustained critical injuries.
Trump Returns to Butler, Pennsylvania, Site of Assassination Attempt
During the interview, Trump attributed his survival to a change in rally plans, specifically a request to display immigration statistics on a screen at his podium's side. He credited this alteration as the reason he walked away with a minor ear injury.
Trump expressed his belief in divine intervention, stating, "It's very much… an act of God. It's a miracle. I'm honored by it." He recounted how he was looking directly in the shooter's direction when the bullet struck him at an angle that minimized the damage.
Trump Returns to Butler, Pennsylvania, Site of Assassination Attempt
Trump acknowledged the swift response of various first responders, including local police, Secret Service agents, and medical personnel. He highlighted the actions of the Secret Service sniper, who eliminated the threat with a single shot from a distance of approximately 400 yards.
Trump also lauded the Secret Service agents who shielded him when they heard gunshots: "They moved so fast. And let me tell you, that took tremendous courage." He mentioned the Butler police officer who climbed onto the roof of the AGR building, where the shooter was positioned, mere seconds before the attack. He believes this distraction may have influenced the shooter's aim.
Trump Returns to Butler, Pennsylvania, Site of Assassination Attempt
Trump acknowledged the importance of learning from this incident for law enforcement, as they had missed the presence of a gunman on the roof of an unoccupied building. He expressed confidence in the ability of officials to glean valuable insights from this experience.
Trump commended the medical professionals who treated him and the other victims, praising their exceptional skills. He described the experience as "a very terrible experience" but expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Butler hospital staff.
Trump Returns to Butler, Pennsylvania, Site of Assassination Attempt
Trump's return to Butler in October will serve as a testament to his resilience and his desire to connect with the community where he faced a life-threatening event.
