Pennsylvania authorities are speaking out after former President Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Butler on Saturday evening.
The Trump campaign confirmed that Trump is “doing well” and will attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week. The former president said via your Truth Social account that he was shot in the right ear.
The Secret Service said in a statement that one rallygoer was killed and two others were in critical condition. The suspected shooter was also killed.
Many Pennsylvania lawmakers and officials condemned the shooting and expressed condolences to the shooting victims and their families.
Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media that he had been in contact with President Joe Biden as well as law enforcement on the scene.
“Violence directed against any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable,” Shapiro said. he said via social media“This has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.”
In another post on Saturday evening: Shapiro said“We mourn the loss of life and pray for the two victims who are currently receiving treatment.”
“As we await more information from the investigation, I recognize how painful and shocking this event is to many of our fellow Pennsylvanians,” Shapiro added. “I respectfully ask that we treat our fellow Pennsylvanians with respect and unite to universally condemn the unacceptable violence we witnessed earlier today in Butler.”
U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), who represents Butler, was at the rally. Kelly confirmed on social media that he and his family are secure.
“We are safe and praying for Mr. Trump and all involved” Kelly wrote“We thank law enforcement and emergency services for their quick action.”
Kelly called the shooting an “attack from the left,” but the shooter had not been identified as of this writing. It’s unclear what his motives may have been.
Republican U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick spoke at a rally for Trump and was among the crowd when the shooting occurred.
McCormack he told Fox News that someone behind him was shot in a “very terrifying moment.”
“The crowd just fell to the ground,” McCormick said. “Unfortunately, someone behind me in the stands was definitely injured. There was a lot of blood, so the police came and helped carry that person out of the stands so he could get the care he needed.”
McCormick’s current opponent, Senator Bob Casey, he said on social media This “Political violence is never acceptable and I hope former President Trump and all those involved are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement.”
Democratic Senator John Fetterman also he expressed his condolences to victims via social media
“I am appalled and condemn in the strongest possible terms the violence in Butler,” Fetterman wrote. “My condolences to those affected and I wish Mr. Trump a speedy and full recovery.”
State Attorney General Michelle Henry she said on her Twitter account“I am deeply concerned by today’s act of violence, which has absolutely no place in the Commonwealth or anywhere else.
“My condolences go to the families who will forever feel the effects of this heinous act.”
Henry wished Trump a speedy recovery and added that her office remains in contact and cooperating with law enforcement.
State lawmakers also quickly spoke out.
Senator Elder Vogel (R-Beaver), who represents part of Butler County, he said“I do not condone the senseless act of violence that occurred here in Butler. This horrific incident is currently under investigation.
“Former President Trump, his swiftly acting Secret Service team, the rally attendees, and our first responders currently on the scene are in my prayers.”
Pennsylvania Senate Interim President Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) issued a statement saying:America’s resilience must overcome any brazen acts of violence. I pray for President Trump, his family, and any innocent victims and their families who may have been harmed by this senseless act. I thank the Secret Service, law enforcement, and first responders who helped keep us secure and serene. God bless America.”
State House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) he said“Political violence is never appropriate and must be condemned.
“I pray for the former president, all the injured and for those who lost their lives as a result of this heinous act.
“Love for our country and respect for our democracy have never been more important.”
Senate Minority Leader Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) he said “This heinous act is unworthy of our constitutional republic. I certainly expect that those who may disagree with Trump’s views should at least recognize that such despicable acts go beyond anything we should accept in a civilized society.”
The mood was like this, repeated by Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny)
“Political violence is a threat to all of our democratic ideals,” Costa wrote. “I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. Our law enforcement officers acted with courage tonight, and my thoughts are with all those who were injured or worse.”
Update: This story was updated at 11:29 p.m. July 13, 2024 with additional comments from Gov. Josh Shapiro.
