19:36 Trump requests Secret-Service protection for Kennedy's business associates
Former President Trump calls for Secret Service protection for RFK Jr.
Former President Donald Trump has called for Secret Service protection for independent Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following the shooting at a campaign event. Trump made the request on his own social network, Truth Social, stating that it is "obviously the right thing" to do. Both Robert F. Kennedy's uncle, John F. Kennedy, who was the 35th President of the USA, and his father, Robert F. Kennedy, were victims of assassinations in the 1960s.
19:08: Home Security Minister: Trump shooting was a failure
Home Security Minister Alejandro Mayorkas has stated that the shooting on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump marks a failure. "An incident like this should not happen," Mayorkas told CNN. "When I say that something like this should not happen, we're talking about a failure." Mayorkas was specifically asked if he holds the Secret Service responsible for the failure that led to the shooting. The agency is responsible for the protection of the current and former Presidents and falls under Mayorkas' Ministry. Mayorkas has promised a thorough and independent investigation to determine how the attack on Trump at a campaign rally in the US state of Pennsylvania on Saturday occurred. Recommendations for security measures will also be made, he added.
18:43: Trump to announce VP pick Monday
Donald Trump is expected to announce his Vice Presidential pick on Monday, according to a report by Fox News. Moderator Bret Baier stated that he had spoken with Trump and that the announcement would be made on Monday. Additionally, there are expected to be other surprises.
18:19: Democratic Senator hopes for Trump's endorsement
Senator Chris Coons (D), Co-Chair of the Biden-Harris campaign, is hoping that former President Donald Trump will use his platform at the Republican National Convention to follow President Biden's example. Speaking to CNN, Coons referenced Biden's earlier statements, including his inaugural address, which called for unity among the American people. His remarks come after Trump told the "Washington Examiner" on Sunday that he would rewrite his original speech, as it presented an opportunity to "bring the whole country, if not the whole world, together."
17:49: Secret Service to support independent investigation
The Director of the Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, has announced that the agency will fully cooperate with an independent investigation into the security arrangements at the scene of the attack on Donald Trump during his campaign event on Saturday. According to the "Washington Post," the Behavioral Analysis and Threat Assessment Unit of the Secret Service will be involved in the investigation. "We are aware of the significance of the independent review announced by President Biden and will fully cooperate," Cheatle said. US President Biden had announced on Sunday that the results of the investigation would be made public.
17:23: King Charles sends personal message to Donald Trump
British King Charles III has reportedly sent a personal message to former US President Donald Trump following the shooting incident. The exact contents of the message have not been disclosed. According to the British Press Association, the message was in line with a conversation between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Trump.
17:01 Ex-classmates label Attacker Crooks as miserable marksman
Former classmates of Trump assassination attempt suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks described him as poorly skilled with firearms. Jameson Myers, who attended ABC News and went to the same elementary and high school as Crooks, stated that the 20-year-old attempted to join the marksmanship team during his first year at Bethel Park High School but was rejected during tryouts. "He didn't even make it into the team," Myers said. "He was asked not to return because his shooting was so incredibly poor, making his participation considered dangerous." Afterward, Crooks no longer showed up for practice sessions. An anonymous member of the marksmanship team told ABC News that the Trump assassination suspect "wasn't really suitable for the team." They added that "he also shot terribly."
16:41 Local sharpshooters should have secured alleged shooter's building, according to reports
One of the two local anti-sniper teams was supposed to secure the building used by the shooter, according to CNN, citing an unnamed source familiar with the investigation. However, the Pennsylvania State Police denied the allegations and stated they were not involved. Butler County Police have yet to comment.
16:18 Shooter bought 50 rounds of ammunition shortly before attack
Trump assassination suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks purchased 50 rounds of ammunition shortly before the attack, according to CNN, citing sources within the security apparatus.
15:53 Secret Service intensifies security measures for Republican convention
Following the assassination attempt on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, security measures for the upcoming Republican convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, have been intensified by the Secret Service. Kimberly Cheatle, the director of the responsible Secret Service division, stated that their organization had revised and strengthened the plans for protecting the convention in light of the attack on Saturday. She is now confident that they are prepared for all contingencies.
15:27 Former agent: Trump assassination attempt could devastate Secret Service
The criticism of Donald Trump's security detail following the assassination attempt has grown louder. Former Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy also sees a failure on the part of the security forces. The incident is now being investigated - for the Secret Service, it represents an existential threat, according to McCarthy.
15:04 Government spokesperson: Biden not to be written off in US election
The German government still sees a chance for Joe Biden to win the US presidential election despite the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit stated, "One should not underestimate Joe Biden's campaign skills." He added, "It's still too early to believe that the American presidential election has been decided." Other politicians, such as Bavaria's Minister-President Markus Söder, had called on the Democrats to withdraw Biden from the race, believing him to be unelectable against Trump. Hebestreit emphasized that it is natural for democracies to have the possibility of a government change. "That's what makes them attractive to voters, citizens, women, and men," he said.
14:41 No direct contact between Scholz and Trump after the attack
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz has not sought direct contact with republican US Presidential candidate Donald Trump since the attack. However, there have been "dialogues" with both Democrats and Republicans, according to Government Spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit. Scholz met with representatives of both parties in the US during the past week. The German government condemns the attack on Trump clearly. "That was a despicable crime," says Hebestreit.
14:18 Expert accuses Secret Service of "monstrous failure"
Following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, the Secret Service is under heavy criticism. "The protective detail was outside the Secret-Service zone. What is that, then?" asks Richard Painter, a White House employee under former President George W. Bush and now a law professor at the University of Minnesota. He sees a "monstrous failure" and demands a detailed investigation. If a roof is within the range of a rifle to reach a President or Presidential candidate, "then it is the Secret Service that should be on that roof," says Painter. "Have they ever heard of the Texas Book Depository?" That is the building in Dallas, Texas, from which Lee Harvey Oswald shot President John F. Kennedy in 1963 with a rifle.
13:58 Trump Rally in Milwaukee: Thousands of additional police on duty
Security measures will be particularly strict at the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee. Up to 4500 additional police officers from the surrounding area will be deployed in addition to the city's police forces to secure the RNC, according to local newspaper "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel." The area around the Fiserv Forum is also declared a no-fly zone for drones during the duration of the convention. Outside the area, where the Secret Service is responsible for personal protection, weapons are allowed in the vicinity of the RNC during the event - in accordance with the laws of the state of Wisconsin. The Secret Service assures, "we are fully prepared." The coordinator for the RNC-related Secret Service, Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, states, "I trust that the event will be protected at the highest level of security measures."
13:35 Trump Attack boosts Chinese tech firm's stock market value
Following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, a Chinese technology company saw a surge in stock market value - all because of its name. The shares of software provider Wisesoft soared by the maximum ten percent at the Shenzhen Stock Exchange today. The company name in Mandarin, Chuan Da Zhi Sheng, sounds similar to the Chinese translation of the phrase "Trump wins big." In China, stock market speculation connected to current events is common. This often leads to price fluctuations unrelated to the numbers and performance of the respective company.
13:06 USA after the Attack: "Time for revenge" for Trump and Republicans
The interpretation of the attack on Donald Trump is in full swing. Political scientist Andrew B. Denison expects Trump and the Republicans to assume the martyr role and fan the political hatred further: [End of text]
12:37 T-Shirts with Trump Photos are the new sales hit
After the attempted assassination on Donald Trump, sales of T-Shirts featuring images of the wounded ex-President skyrocketed within hours. On the T-Shirts, priced between nine and forty dollars, Trump is shown with a bloody face, raising his fist defiantly. Slogans like "Bulletproof", "Legends never die", and "Shooting makes me stronger" are printed on them. The 25-year-old Li Jinwei, who sells products on the Chinese platform Taobao from Alibaba, quickly designed T-Shirts upon hearing the news. "Within three hours, we had over 2000 orders from China and the USA," the businesswoman told media in Hong Kong.
11:55 Many years before Trump: The man who "destroyed American politics"
The shots fired at Donald Trump during a campaign rally mark a low point in the polarizing battle between political factions in the USA. The Republican Party's accusations against the Democrats in this regard are "hypocritical," according to historian Annika Brockschmidt, who explains how political adversaries became enemies:
11:19 The example set by political leaders in the coming days is crucial
Regarding the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump and the start of the Republican Party convention, where he is to be officially declared the presidential candidate, the "Los Angeles Times" writes: "The example set by political leaders in the coming days is crucial for how the rest of the campaign season will unfold. (...) Trump and the top Republicans gathering in Milwaukee this week carry a special responsibility to not use the attack as a means to inflame their base. They must recognize that the U.S. is a powder keg right now, and heated rhetoric should be toned down before sparks fly. For the moment, they must recognize that violence, once unleashed, is non-partisan." Previously, President Biden had already called on American citizens to renounce violence.
10:42 After the shooting: The divide in the U.S. will deepen
Could the thwarted assassination attempt on Donald Trump be a moment of inner political reconciliation for American society? Political scientist Thomas Jäger sees no signs of it. On the contrary, the division in the country could worsen.
10:13 Initial analyses: Chances of a victory in the election for Trump increase
The attempted assassination of the former US President Donald Trump at a campaign rally over the weekend has increased his chances of winning the November election, according to Ipek Ozkardeskaya, analyst at Swissquote Bank. The chances of a Trump victory, which the analyst positively assesses from the market perspective, rose to 67 percent after the attack, compared to 61 percent before the attack. "Although the attack fuels concerns about a deeply divided America where political violence is gaining ground, it has increased the chances that Trump will win the presidential elections in November," the analyst explains.
09:54 The attempt as a campaign boost? Boese: Berlin is preparing for Trump 2.0
The German government has been preparing for the possibility that Donald Trump will return to the White House for some time now. Many in political Berlin look back on his first term with less than fond memories, as ntv correspondent Heike Boese summarizes:
09:25 Heated Moments Could Now Become Extremely Dangerous
The Federal Chairwoman of the SPD, Saskia Esken, states in RTL/ntv Frühstart regarding the question if the attack on Trump could boost his chances: "It's to be expected, yes, that he and especially his supporters will use this incident to further stoke the flames. We have experienced similar situations in the past, which ended up at the Capitol in chaos. Such heated moments, they could now become extremely dangerous, not only in terms of a victory in the election." In response to the question of how Germany and the Federal Government should react if Trump wins the presidency, the SPD Chairwoman states: "It's long been the case that the Federal Government, as well as governments in Europe, are aware that we need to get closer."
08:48 "Have We Overlooked Something?" - Consequences Threaten the Secret Service
Following the attack on Donald Trump, the Secret Service is under scrutiny. The Congress is planning a comprehensive investigation into the tragic incident to determine where security gaps existed and what else the American people need to know. Mike Johnson, a spokesperson and Trump supporter, tells NBC: "Have we overlooked something? And if we have overlooked something, we must stand up and take responsibility for it." Johnson wonders why the Secret Service did not secure the building with snipers.
08:05 Secret Service under Criticism: Shots at Trump: "Perhaps the Officer Was the Assailant"
Following the planned attack on Donald Trump, the Secret Service must answer several questions. Trump himself has only commented on the incident on Truth Social, and the Republican Party convention is approaching. ntv correspondent Christopher Wittich summarizes the latest developments.
07:34 After the Attack: Joe Biden Does Not Want a "Battlefield"
US President Biden speaks out on the attack on his political opponent Donald Trump in a speech and on social media. The 81-year-old writes on X: "Political differences are unavoidable in the American democracy. They are part of human nature. But politics should never be a literal battlefield or - God forbid - a deadly battlefield."
06:57 "The attempt threw everything into disarray"
The Sydney Morning Herald writes about the attack on Donald Trump: "US-President Joe Biden is facing a delicate balancing act, as America continues to reel from the attack on its largest political rival. After weeks of discussions following the TV debate, Biden had planned to intensify his attacks on Donald Trump in the coming weeks to prove to Democrats that he has the mental and physical strength to beat the turbulent Republican at the November election. The strategy was simple: showcase the strengths of his first term, present a bold vision for the future, and go on the offensive against Trump by portraying him as the greatest threat to democracy in the US. But the attack on the former president on Saturday has thrown everything into disarray. Facing the prospect of escalating violence, Biden knows he cannot further inflame the tensions of a country teeming with hostility, anger, and fear."
06:38 A grand show is coming up: Trump has arrived in Milwaukee
After the primary elections in the individual states, both Democrats and Republicans must officially confirm their national results. This happens at the respective nomination conventions. The Democrats will gather for this purpose in mid-August in Chicago, Illinois. The Republican nomination convention, however, is taking place this time from July 15 to 18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump has already arrived in the city. He can present himself for the first time as the clear leader of the Republicans at a nomination convention. In 2016, he entered as an outsider, and in 2020, the Republicans were hindered by the pandemic from holding a large, pompous event.
06:14 The Trump attack affects the stock exchange as well
Asian stock markets react with uncertainty to the attempted attack on US presidential candidate Donald Trump. Investors are concerned about potential implications for future US economic policy. At the bond markets, interest rates for government bonds rose, which experts attribute to the expectation of a potentially inflationary and debt-intensive economic policy under a Trump presidency. Additionally, stricter immigration laws could complicate the labor market and drive wages up. "The market reaction to a Trump presidency was previously characterized by a stronger dollar and a steeper curve of US government bonds," explains Rong Ren Goh, Portfolio Manager at Eastspring Investments in Singapore. "We may observe some of these developments in the coming week if the election chances improve further after this incident."
05:56 Trump must constantly think about the small head movement that saved his life just before the attack
Donald Trump must constantly think back to the moment that likely saved his life: a small head movement that allowed him to avoid being hit fatally in the head by a bullet. Instead, the bullet grazed his ear. "The most incredible thing was that I not only turned around but exactly at the right time and to the right extent," Trump told the Washington Examiner in a speech aboard his 757 as he flew to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention. "If I had only turned half around, it would have hit the back of my head. The other way goes straight through the skull. The chance of me making a perfect turn was probably less than one in ten, so I shouldn't be here."
05:22 Trump: Reality is just setting in
After the attempted attack at a campaign event, Donald Trump calls for calm and unity. "This is a chance to bring the whole country, indeed the whole world together", Trump tells the "Washington Examiner" newspaper. The incident deeply disturbed Trump. He understands now what happened ("Reality is just setting in"). Trump survived the attack because he turned away from the crowd in the crucial moment. "I rarely turn away from the crowd. If I hadn't done that in this moment, we wouldn't be talking about this today, or?"
04:46 NYT: Explosives found in Trump-Attacker's house
More information is coming to light about the Trump attacker. Besides the rudimentary explosives found in Thomas Matthew Crooks' car, the 20-year-old may have had explosives in his house. The "New York Times" reports this based on trusted sources.
04:15 Trump-Attacker was a member of a shooting range
According to US media, the Trump attacker was a member of a shooting range. "The Clairton Sportsmen's Club can confirm that Thomas Matthew Crooks was a member," the club's lawyer, Robert Bootay, states in a declaration. "Beyond that, the Club, in light of ongoing police investigations, cannot make any further comments on this matter." The Clairton Sportsmen's Club operates a wooded area in the southern hills of Pittsburgh with a 200-yard shooting range.
03:31 German government plans for a Trump re-election
The German government is preparing for a possible second US presidency for Donald Trump, according to the words of its Transatlantic Coordinator Michael Link. "Beyond the intensive preparations of the German government, which are running very intensively and self-evidently behind the scenes, we also need a consensus of the democratic parties, factions, and political foundations," Link told the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND). "I am seeking this consensus regularly and have been networking intensively with the competent colleagues in CDU and CSU on the topic of preparing for a possible scenario Trump 2.0 for a long time." Previously, the deputy CDU fraction leader Jens Spahn and the green chairman of the Bundestag European Affairs Committee, Anton Hofreiter, called on Germany to better prepare for a possible Trump re-election.
02:25 Biden calls for de-escalation in the campaign
US President Joe Biden appeals for de-escalation in the US campaign after the attack on his predecessor and rival Donald Trump. "We settle our differences at the ballot box. That's how it works - at the ballot box, not with bullets," Biden says in a rare address to the nation from the Oval Office in the White House. "We need to lower the heated rhetoric in politics." He reminds Americans that they are "neighbors and friends, not enemies." Biden is relieved that Trump was not seriously injured in the attack. Biden acknowledges that the campaign has been marked by highly heated political rhetoric, but emphasizes the high stakes of the upcoming presidential elections.
01:46 Biden resumes campaign planning
After a brief campaign pause due to the attack on his predecessor and political rival Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden plans public appearances in the coming days. According to the White House, Biden will visit the NAACP convention in Las Vegas on Tuesday. On Wednesday, he is also scheduled to attend a local campaign event in the desert metropolis of Nevada. Biden had canceled a trip to Texas on Monday and cut short a weekend stay in Delaware to return to the White House.
01:04 Still and frequently bullied: What is known about the shooter Matthew Crooks
The FBI identified the Trump assassination suspect as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. A driver's license photo of Crooks shows him as a young man with side-parted dark blond hair, glasses, and a few freckles on his face. Crooks' former classmates describe him as a "quiet" student who often seemed "lonely," as reported by ABC News. One classmate claims Crooks was "socially withdrawn." He could not remember hearing Crooks speak about politics in general or Trump in particular. Jason Kohler, who claims to have attended the same high school as the alleged shooter, told reporters that Crooks was often bullied. "He was quiet, but he was just bullied. He was bullied so much." Crooks, who occasionally wore hunter's clothing, was mocked for his clothing style.
00:35 "Next time not miss": Democratic congresswoman fires employee for Facebook post
Democratic Congressman Bennie Thompson of the US House of Representatives fired an employee who posted on social media that she wished the Trump assassination suspect had aimed better. According to "The New York Times," Jacqueline Marsaw wrote on Facebook: "I don't condone violence, but please take shooting lessons so you don't miss next time. Oops, that wasn't me who spoke." Thompson, who represents Mississippi's second district, writes on X, that he is grateful Trump is okay. He adds that there is no place for political violence in America's democracy.
23:50 No intensification of security measures at Republican convention
The Secret Service agent in charge of security for the Republican convention, Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, reports that security measures for the large event have not been intensified yet. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson does not see the possibility of banning weapons in the outdoor area of the event venue in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as an additional precaution. Carrying weapons is protected by state laws, he says. At the Mega-Event, Trump is scheduled to be officially nominated as the Republican Party's presidential candidate in the coming week. Trump is making efforts not to appear weak after the attack: He announced that he would travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Sunday afternoon (local time) to attend the party convention. The event takes place there.
23:21 Biden: Motive of Attacker still unclear
After the attempted attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, the motive of the shooter is still unclear. "We have no information on the motive of the shooter," says US President Joe Biden at the White House to journalists. Biden urges the public not to speculate and to let the law enforcement agencies do their job.
22:53 Financial markets expect "landslide victory for Trump"
Following the attempted attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, financial markets need to recalibrate. The bullet that hit the Republican at an election rally could increase Trump's chances of winning - and thus, financial markets may be focusing on this, investors suggest. "The election is likely to be a landslide. This reduces uncertainty, most likely," says Nick Ferres, Chief Investment Manager at Vantage Point Asset Management. Rong Ren Goh, Portfolio Manager of Eastspring Investments in Singapore, expects the Dollar to continue its uptrend and investors to focus on a steeper yield curve for US Treasury bonds.
22:07 Injured victims in stable condition
The two people who were seriously injured in the attempted attack on Donald Trump are in stable condition, according to Pennsylvania police. At the election rally, a man from the audience was killed. The alleged shooter was shot by security guards. Trump was lightly wounded, and two attendees were seriously injured.
21:57 FBI: Suspect acted alone, no ideology identified yet
The FBI has issued a warning: The alleged shooter acted alone, and there is no further danger to security, an FBI representative says. The incident is being classified as a domestic terror attack and an attempted assassination. The FBI is investigating the social media accounts of the 20-year-old, who was killed. However, there have been no clear indications of an ideology or a mental health issue for the alleged attacker. The weapon was legally purchased, most likely by the suspect's father. Bomb experts have also secured a suspicious device in the suspect's car, which has been taken to the lab for further investigation.
21:42 British Prime Minister Starmer calls Trump
Britain's new Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly called Donald Trump after the attack. He condemned the violence and expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, according to reports. Trump and the other injured were wished a quick recovery by Starmer, according to the British news agency PA.
21:16 They will wait for this: Söder gives Democrats "external recommendation"
"Violence is certainly not a means of dispute resolution," says CSU leader Markus Söder and wishes Donald Trump a speedy recovery after the attack. He assesses the consequences for the Presidential campaign - and gives the Democrats a tip.
20:47 Trump to travel to Wisconsin Republican Party convention soon
Just one day after the attack on him, former US President Donald Trump plans to travel to the Republican Party convention in the state of Wisconsin. The Republican Presidential candidate writes on the online platform Truth Social that he will leave for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Sunday afternoon local time and will not change his schedule.
20:39 Biden announces plans
US-President Joe Biden cancels a planned trip to Texas at short notice. The White House announces this. Biden had originally planned to travel to the southern state on Monday. After the shooting at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening local time, Biden had already cut short a weekend stay in Delaware and returned to the government headquarters in Washington.
20:11 Biden announces heightened security measures for the Republican convention
US-President Joe Biden announces an address to the nation and calls for unity. "We must stand together as a nation," Biden says at the White House and announces that he will make an official statement to American citizens in the evening (Monday in US time) from the Oval Office. For the Republican convention, which begins on Monday, security measures will be increased, Biden also announces. An independent investigation into the background of the attack is also to be carried out. Biden and his deputy Kamala Harris were briefed on the latest investigation status in the morning by law enforcement and security agencies.
20:07 Live on ntv: Biden comments on Trump attack
US-President Joe Biden comments on the attempted assassination of his rival Donald Trump. Biden had already spoken out on Saturday a few hours after the incident and said, "There is no place for this kind of violence in America." He then called Trump. Biden was briefed on the status of the investigations by the heads of the FBI and the Secret Service, the security agency for presidents and former presidents, in the morning.
19:43 Firefighter threw himself in front of his family and died "as a hero"
The man killed at a campaign rally of former US President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania was a firefighter and family man. This was announced by the democratic governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, and he said he had spoken to his wife and daughters. The man died "as a hero" and threw himself over his family to protect them when the shots fell at the Trump rally. He was a "passionate supporter" of Trump. In addition to the man who died, two other spectators were injured. Shapiro said their condition was critical.
19:13 Many Republicans blame Biden and the Democrats
The majority of Republicans in Congress offer prayers and support for former President Donald Trump in the hours after the shooting at a campaign event in Butler. According to the "Washington Post," about 30 of them directly blame US President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party, or journalists for the alleged instigation of the attack - despite Biden's clear condemnation of the violence and his statement that "every form of political violence must be denounced."
18:44 Former German US Ambassador: Imitators or Avengers more likely
The former German ambassador to the US, Wolfgang Ischinger, warns of the danger of a spiral of violence in the US election campaign. "Imitators - against Trump - or Avengers - against Joe Biden - are more likely," he tells the "Tagesspiegel." This is all the more true since "multiple conspiracy theories will only further confuse the already uncertain American electorate." The Transatlantic Coordinator of the German government, Michael Link, also fears further political polarization in the US. "That must not happen. It's important now to maintain calm and respect. President Joe Biden did that with his call to Donald Trump," says the FDP politician.
18:06 Trump Supporters See Conspiracy Theories Confirmed
The shots at Donald Trump could be decisive for the upcoming US presidential election, explains Frank Umbach. The security expert finds it "inexplicable" that there was no follow-up on the indications of the shootings and praises the Democrats for "the right reaction."
17:37 "He will never stop fighting for the salvation of America" - Trump's children speak out
The children of former President Donald Trump pay tribute to their father and thank the agents who protected him. "He will never stop fighting for the salvation of America," writes Donald Trump Jr. on Twitter alongside a photo of his father with a bloodied face raising his fist. Eric Trump shares the same photo on Instagram with a similar message in capital letters. In an Instagram story, Tiffany Trump thanks God that her father is still alive. "Political violence is never the answer," she writes, thanking the law enforcement agencies and the Secret Service, and honoring the victims. "As you saw today, my father is a fighter, and he will continue to fight for you and the USA." Ivanka Trump, who had previously announced that she would not participate in her father's presidential campaign this year, thanks the bodyguards and writes: "I continue to pray for our country," and: "I love you, Dad, today and always."
17:15 Shooter Had Explosives in His Car
The Trump assassin had explosives in his car, according to information from the "Wall Street Journal." The car was secured near the crime scene, reports the newspaper, citing unidentified sources. The weapon used for the assassination was bought by the father of the alleged assassin, reports the newspaper and ABC News further. It is said to be an AR-15 rifle. The rifle was developed in the 1950s, initially for the military. The rifle is externally almost identical to the M16 military rifle, which the manufacturer Colt sold to the military. The AR-15 is the civilian version. Technically speaking, continuous firing is not possible with this weapon. Skilled shooters can, however, fire many shots in very short order.
16:59 Melania Trump speaks out
Following the attempted assassination on ex-US President Donald Trump, Melania Trump also speaks out. The guard who was killed in the attack was a "Monster" who tried to extinguish "Donald's passion, his laughter, his inventiveness, his love for music and his enthusiasm," explains the former First Lady of the USA at X. When she saw that a bullet had grazed her husband, she realized that her life and that of her son Barron were "on the brink of a devastating change." Melania Trump thanks the security guards of her husband.
16:26 "You are not behind me, you are behind each other" - Trump campaign launches fundraising appeal
According to Brad Bannon, a democratic strategist, the incident could be used by Trump. It fits the narrative of the former US President that the country is on the wrong track. "The attempted attack generates sympathy for Trump," says Bannon. "It confirms also the perception of his voters that something fundamental is wrong in this country." Trump's appearances at the four-day Republican nomination convention in Milwaukee, which begins on Monday, could be fueled by the attack. "If the country wasn't a powder keg before, it is now," says Chip Felkel, a republican political analyst who is not a Trump supporter. Hours after the incident, Trump's campaign launches a fundraising appeal via text message. "You are not behind me, you are behind each other," reads the message to voters.
16:08 Concerns before the convention: Republicans working with 40 security agencies
The chairman of the Republicans, Michael Whatley, assures that the agencies are working intensively to ensure security at the upcoming convention in Milwaukee. They are working with 40 different security agencies, as Whatley tells Fox News.
15:44 Top Trump advisors: "If something seems strange, please report it immediately"
Top advisors of Donald Trump's campaign team advise caution. "We are increasing the armed security presence 24/7 with officers on site. Additional security checks are being conducted. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of all staff," quotes the "Washington Post" Trump campaign advisors Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles from a joint memo. "We urge you to recognize the political polarization in this heated election. If something seems strange, please report it immediately to the leadership or a security team on site," it continues.
15:24 Witnesses describe chaotic scenes at Trump shooting
During Trump's campaign speech in Pennsylvania, shots were fired, causing chaos and panic. Witnesses speak of speculation about fireworks, the sound of gunshots, guards on the roof, and the moment Trump fell to the ground.
14:58 Leading Republican: "We need to lower the rhetoric"The President of the US House of Representatives, Republican Mike Johnson, is working to calm tempers. "We need to lower the rhetoric," he says on MSNBC. "We need to lower the temperature in this country."
14:30 Expert: "Trump shooting is an opportunity for Biden"
14:03 Trump calls for reconciliation "It is more important than ever that we come together," writes Donald Trump on his platform "Truth Social." He is looking forward to speaking in Wisconsin "to our great country" this week. In Milwaukee in the US state of Wisconsin, the Republican nominating convention takes place from Monday to Thursday. Trump writes further, he is praying for the wounded and keeping the memory of the slain citizen "in our hearts." Trump had already called for unity in his inauguration speech as US President in January 2017.
12:58 NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg shocked by assassination attempt NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is shocked over the assassination attempt on Trump. "I am shocked by the attempted assassination of the former president Trump," Stoltenberg writes on X. He wishes him a speedy recovery and is thinking of the victims. Political violence has no place in democracies. The NATO allies are standing together to defend freedom and values.
12:13 Video shows seconds between shooter's shots and Secret Service shots The American gossip news site TMZ shows a video in which it appears that both the shots of the assassin and the shots, which he was probably killed by only seconds later, can be heard. The attack caused panic among the onlookers. The recording was made from outside the area where the rally took place, as TMZ reports.
11:40 Secret Service denies Republican allegations The Secret Service has denied the allegation that they had refused additional security resources for Trump in the last months. "The claim that a member of the former president's security team requested additional security resources that were denied by the Secret Service or the Home Security Department is absolutely false," said Secret-Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. In fact, the Secret Service had recently increased security measures.
Few hours after the attack on Trump, Republican congressman Michael Waltz said he had "reliable sources" who said that there had been repeated requests for stronger intelligence service protection for Trump. Waltz provided no evidence.
11:16 Steinmeier wishes Trump a speedy recovery Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemns the assassination attempt and expresses his condolences to the family of the victim's death: "I condemn the assassination attempt on the 45th US President, Donald J. Trump," Steinmeier writes in a statement. "Violence has no place in our democracy - not in America, not with us. We can all contribute: Let us respect violence in political disputes! Let us push back hatred and hate speech from election campaigns and debates! Democracy tolerates sharp controversies - but violence destroys democracy. Donald J. Trump and the injured I wish a speedy recovery. My deepest condolences go to the family of the victim of the attack."
10:32 Expert: "Trump produced the image directly, instinctively" Seconds after the shots fall, Donald Trump gets up, covered in blood, and raises his fist at Secret Service agents. Political scientist Thomas Jaeger sees the "master of political marketing" at work here. What's crucial now is whether Trump can continue to spin his "witch hunt" narrative.
10:10 Sharpshooter appeared to have noticed the assassin just before the first shots were firedA video posted on X shows a sharpshooter at the Trump rally, in the exact moment when the shots were fired. Sharpshooters are used at such events by the Secret Service to secure the area - which in this case apparently failed. The sharpshooter seems to be observing something or someone through his telescopic sight. He recoils, just before the shots are heard, suggesting that he became aware of the shooter as a threat in that moment. Shortly thereafter, the assassiner was shot.
09:23 Participant warned of the assassin before the attackBefore the shots were fired at Trump's rally in Butler, participants had noticed a man with a rifle on a roof nearby. One of them, Greg Smith, alerted on-site security: "Hey man, there's a guy with a rifle on the roof", he later told the BBC. The response was: "Ha ha, what?", implying that the security personnel did not know what was going on. "I thought: Why is Trump still speaking, why didn't they take him off the stage? ... Next, five shots were fired."
09:15 Scholz condemns the attackFederal Chancellor Olaf Scholz commented on the attempted assassination of Trump on X: "The attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump is abhorrent. I wish him a quick recovery. My thoughts are also with the people who were affected by the attack. Such acts of violence threaten democracy."
08:28 Photographer took picture of possible projectileDoug Mills, a photographer for the "New York Times", apparently took a picture by chance in the moment a bullet narrowly missed Trump. The picture "could possibly show the air displacement caused by a projectile", says Michael Harrigan, a retired FBI agent, who spoke to the newspaper. In principle, it is possible to photograph a flying bullet, Harrigan added. Mills used a Sony digital camera at the Trump rally, which can take up to 30 pictures per second. The picture was taken with a shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds.
08:00 Alleged shooter registered as a RepublicanThe FBI has identified the alleged shooter as a man named Thomas Matthew Crooks. The 20-year-old, who was killed during the shooting attempt, is from the small town of Bethel Park in the US state of Pennsylvania, an hour south of Butler, where the Trump rally took place. Crooks is registered as a Republican. According to reports he donated $15 to a Democratic donation organization on the day of Biden's inauguration in January 2021.
The "New York Post" notes that Crooks was only 17 years old at the time of the donation. He registered as a Republican member in September 2021, when he turned 18.
07:46 Expert: "Secret Service must answer some questions"Donald Trump, as the former President and candidate, is under the protection of the Secret Service. At all campaign events, there are the highest security measures, as Obama's former campaign advisor Julius van de Laar reports. It now needs to be clarified how it was possible that a shooter was able to approach, despite these precautions.
07:38 World leaders shocked by attack on TrumpState and government heads worldwide have expressed shock over the attack on former President Trump. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen writes on X, expressing deep shock, wishing Trump a quick recovery, and expressing condolences to the innocent victim's family. "Political violence has no place in a democracy," she writes. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expresses similar sentiments. "My thoughts are with former President Trump, the attendees, and all Americans."
The United Nations condemns the attack on Trump. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns this act of political violence," explains the UN Secretary-General's spokesperson, António Guterres. "He wishes President Trump a swift recovery." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shares that he is "appalled" by the news of the attack. "Such violence has no justification and no place in the world. Never should violence prevail." Zelenskyy also wishes Trump a swift recovery.
Biden had already stated on Saturday evening (local time) that he was grateful Trump was safe and doing well. In the US, "there is no place for this kind of violence."
07:21 Open questions to the Secret ServiceFBI Agent Kevin Rojek speaks at a press conference, finding it "surprising" that the protective detail was able to return fire. In response to a question about security measures, he states that such questions should be answered by the Secret Service. Although the name suggests otherwise, the Secret Service is not a secret service but is (among other things) responsible for the security of US presidents and former US presidents.
"They conduct the initial security assessments and determine where the various security sites should be located," Rojek says. "And they are the ones responsible for securing the crime scene." A representative of the Secret Service is not present at the press conference. "Nobody was available," Rojek explains.
07:04 Trump in New Jersey, apparently unharmedA Trump spokesperson posts a video on social media showing Trump leaving an airport in New Jersey without assistance. His injured ear is not visible in the video. The Republicans have already announced that the nominating convention will proceed as planned; the convention takes place from Monday to Thursday in Milwaukee. There, Trump will be officially nominated as the Republican presidential candidate. US President Biden stated that the Democrats would stop all campaign ads as soon as possible.
06:50 Shooter fired from a roof near the rallyAnthony Guglielmi, a Secret Service spokesperson, states that the suspect fired "multiple shots towards the stage" and was located "on an elevated position outside the event perimeter." This suggests that a roof near the rally could be meant.
06:39 Shooter is reportedly a 20-year-old man from PennsylvaniaThe person who shot Trump is a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania, according to a source familiar with the investigation of the "Washington Post." Officially, the FBI states that they have not yet identified the shooter, but are "close" to doing so. The shooter is deceased. According to Pennsylvania police, it is too early to determine if it was a lone gunman. There is also no indication of "any further threat."
06:25 Media: Trump discharged from hospital late SaturdayAccording to a report by news agency Bloomberg, Trump was discharged from the hospital late Saturday evening (local time).
06:01 FBI confirms attempted assassination against ex-President Trump at rallyFollowing the shootings at a campaign event in the US state of Pennsylvania, the FBI has classified the incident as an "attempted assassination" against former President Donald Trump. "This is an attempted assassination against our former president Donald Trump," FBI agent Kevin Rojek in Butler, the location of the rally, said. Trump was injured at the ear, according to law enforcement reports, and besides the alleged shooter, a bystander was killed and two others were severely wounded.
04:41 Biden calls Trump personally after attackUS President Joe Biden called Trump personally after the attack on his predecessor, the White House confirmed, without disclosing the contents of the conversation. On Sunday, Biden will be briefed by law enforcement agencies about the status of the investigations, it was further stated.
03:58 Republicans to hold convention despite Trump attackThe US Republicans plan to hold their nominating convention in Milwaukee this week as planned, despite the attack on their presidential candidate Donald Trump. The party and Trump's campaign team made the announcement in a joint statement. The Republicans are scheduled to gather in Milwaukee, Wisconsin starting Monday for their nominating convention to officially name the 78-year-old as their presidential candidate.
03:54 Shooter fired from elevated positionThe shooter in the attack on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump opened fire from an "elevated position" outside the event venue, the Secret Service reported. One person was killed and two others were severely wounded. Initially, it was reported that one person was seriously injured.
02:55 Trump: I was hit by a bullet in the earFormer US President Donald Trump, according to his own account, was injured in the ear during the attack at a campaign event in Pennsylvania. "I was hit by a bullet in the ear," Trump wrote on his own Truth Social platform.
00:33 Shots fired at Trump: Secret Service escorts ex-President off stageFormer US President Donald Trump was escorted off the stage by security personnel following shootings at a campaign event in Pennsylvania. Prior to this, gunshots were heard. Images show Trump with a bloody ear and raised fist.
- Despite the attack on Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden's political team is still hoping for Trump's endorsement during the Republican National Convention, believing it could help unite the American people.
- Following the shooting incident, Home Security Minister Alejandro Mayorkas has stated that the Secret Service's failure to prevent the attack on Donald Trump is a significant issue that needs to be addressed, and a thorough investigation is underway.
