The US Secret Service is under intense scrutiny following a failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on Thursday, July 18 (local time). The incident occurred when a gunman managed to climb onto the roof of a building just 130 meters from where Trump was speaking at a rally. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a man with a rifle on the roof, and police were also present in the building from which the gunman fired. Secret Service Director Jane Smith called the shooting "unacceptable," insisting, "This is an event that should never have happened. The Secret Service is responsible for protecting the former president. The buck stops with me."
The shooting was the first attempt on the life of a president or former president since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. Trump was addressing a large crowd of supporters at a campaign rally near Butler, Pennsylvania, when the 20-year-old gunman fired eight shots. One bullet grazed Trump's ear, causing visible bleeding. Secret Service agents quickly surrounded the former president and placed him in a secure vehicle. The incident resulted in one fatality and left two people critically injured. The gunman was eventually shot and killed by a sniper. Trump later thanked God for "preventing the unthinkable."
Despite the traumatic event, Trump managed to attend the Republican National Convention recently. At the convention, he appeared noticeably tired and subdued, likely due to the stress and injuries from the assassination attempt. Although his usual animated demeanor was somewhat subdued, Trump maintained his composure and effectively delivered his campaign messages. Observers noted that his speech was more measured and included more frequent pauses, reflecting his recent ordeal. However, even in the face of significant challenges, his appearance at the convention demonstrated his resilience and determination.
