Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024
Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old registered Republican from Bethel Park, Pa., has been identified as the shooter who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured in the incident. Secret Service agents quickly swarmed Trump, leading him off the stage to a waiting vehicle.
Blood could be seen on Trump’s right ear as he was escorted away. A spokesperson later confirmed that Trump is “fine.” The alleged shooter was reportedly killed at the scene.
I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery pic.twitter.com/ZdxkF63EqF
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas addressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “A direct line of sight like that to the former president should not occur.” He noted that President Biden has directed an independent review of the incident.
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle announced enhancements to Trump’s security detail, especially with the Republican National Convention approaching. “We have added tactical officers, including SWAT, to his detail to ensure his continued protection,” she stated.
My thoughts are with President Donald Trump, the victim of an assassination attempt. I send him my wishes for a speedy recovery. A spectator has died, several are injured. It is a tragedy for our democracies. France shares the shock and indignation of the American people.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 14, 2024
The U.S. Secret Service is collaborating with federal, state, and local agencies to investigate the attack and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced his endorsement of former President Donald Trump after the shooting.
I am appalled to learn about the shooting of former U.S. President Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania.
Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail.
I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) July 14, 2024
Trump security detail enhancements detailed
Musk expressed his support via a post on platform X, which he owns, shortly after the incident occurred.
Musk’s post endorsing Trump became the most engaged post on X, receiving more than 118 million views and 332,000 retweets. His endorsement eclipsed a statement from former President Barack Obama, who condemned violence, stating there was “no place” for it in democracy. Musk and other right-leaning figures criticized diversity initiatives within the Secret Service, attributing the security breach to these programs.
This sentiment echoed Musk’s earlier arguments about the airline industry, where he suggested diversity efforts compromised safety. Bill Ackman, a hedge fund owner who previously supported Democratic candidates, joined Musk in endorsing Trump. Their support for Trump underscores a significant shift in the political landscape within the business and tech communities over recent years.
Shares of Trump Media & Technology Group, a company which is majority owned by Trump, rose about 50% in pre-market trading on the Monday following the attempt. This incident has raised significant questions about security preparedness and the measures needed to safeguard political figures, especially in high-profile events. The investigation into the motives behind the gunman’s actions is ongoing, with federal authorities working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
