Tech executives across the industry have voiced their condemnation of the violence that unfolded during a campaign rally for former US President Donald Trump. The incident, which occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania, involved an attempt on Trump’s life, leaving him with a gunshot wound to the ear and several others injured, including one fatality.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos took to X to express his gratitude for Trump’s safety and sadness for the victims, stating, “Our former President showed tremendous grace and courage under literal fire tonight. So thankful for his safety and so sad for the victims and their families.”
Leaders of other tech giants followed suit, echoing Bezos’s sentiments and condemning the use of violence. Apple CEO Tim Cook, for instance, wrote, “I pray for President Trump’s rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence.” Similar messages of concern and denouncement were shared by the CEOs of Google, Microsoft, and Meta.
The 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate, who was speaking at the rally, was immediately struck by gunfire. He later described the incident on his Truth Social account, stating, “I instantly knew that something was wrong because I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.” He continued, “Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.”
The alleged assailant, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was subsequently killed. Police investigations revealed that two other individuals sustained critical injuries in the shooting.
The attack has sparked widespread shock and condemnation, with calls for unity and a rejection of political violence. Despite the incident, Trump’s camp maintains he is “fine” and will continue his campaign.
