Former President Donald Trump was whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd. His campaign quickly issued a statement assuring the public that he was "fine" and being checked out at a local medical facility. The Secret Service also confirmed that the former president was safe.
During the rally, Trump was showcasing a chart of border crossing numbers when the bangs began, causing chaos among the crowd of several thousand people. Agents from his protective detail rushed the stage as Trump reached toward his neck with his right hand. Despite the commotion, the former president quickly recovered, pumped his fist, and was seen leaving the venue in his motorcade. His condition was not immediately known.
President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident, while Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., posted a photo on social media showing his father with a bloody face in front of an American flag, along with a message of resilience.
Several politicians, including North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, who are reportedly on Trump's shortlist for vice president, expressed concern for the former president. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, condemned the violence and stated that it has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.
As the situation unfolds, it is important to remember the upcoming 2024 Election and the challenges that lie ahead for American democracy. The Associated Press continues to provide accurate and trusted information on election night, and encourages public engagement in the democratic process.