Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, prompting heightened security measures at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The RNC, scheduled to begin on Monday, will be the site of Trump’s nomination for a second term as President of the United States.
The attempted assassination, which involved gunfire at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulted in the death of one attendee and critical injuries to two others. Trump himself sustained minor injuries, with a bullet grazing his ear. Law enforcement officials identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks.
In response to the incident, security at the RNC has been significantly enhanced. Fox News’ Bill Melugin reported on X (formerly Twitter) that attendees will encounter multiple layers of security and perimeters to enter the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, where the RNC is being held. Security measures include extensive street closures, K-rail barriers, metal barricades, and a strong police presence with routine helicopter flyovers. Media personnel covering the event have had to navigate through three layers of security checkpoints, including Secret Service and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints with metal scanners and bag checks.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers expressed concern over the violence, stating on X, “We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kind – that is not who we are as Americans.” He confirmed that his staff is in close contact with security planners for the RNC.
Despite the attack, Trump remains determined to attend the convention. He posted on Truth Social on Sunday morning, “I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.”
The RNC is a significant event in the Republican Party’s presidential nomination process. It is expected to be a major focal point for political discourse and a platform for Trump to outline his campaign strategy for the upcoming November election.
