21:14 1700 members of the US military at the Republican convention in use
At the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, approximately 1700 members of the military are in action. This was stated by a Pentagon spokesperson to CNN. Most of them are members of the National Guard from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota. They are to support the FBI, the Secret Service, and local police in their various duties around the clock.
20:51 Attack stirs up campaign: These Democrats could replace Biden
The attack on Donald Trump is causing a whirlwind in the campaign, as some Democrats are questioning whether Joe Biden should continue to run for president. Besides Biden's mental fitness, it seems that a Republican victory is now a foregone conclusion. Three potential Democratic candidates are currently in the mix.
20:29 Republicans begin nomination convention in Milwaukee
The official Republican Party convention has begun in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with delegates gathering until Thursday. They are to formally nominate the former US President Trump as the Republican presidential candidate. This is expected to happen on Monday evening. The delegates will cast their votes based on the results of the primary elections. The process is considered a formality - Trump has the necessary votes. The highlight of the event is expected to be a speech by Trump on Thursday evening (local time).
20:09 Hunter: "It's surprising that someone came to shoot here"
The shooting at Trump in Pennsylvania is causing chaos in the campaign. Politician Thomas Hunter believes Biden is being pushed into a role that undermines his original plans. Trump's peace offering is not to be taken seriously. Regarding the circumstances of the shooting, Hunter sees many open questions.
19:41 Trump requests Secret Service protection for Kennedy
Former President Donald Trump has requested Secret Service protection for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. via his social media platform Truth Social. Kennedy should "immediately" receive protection, Trump writes. Given the history of the Kennedy family, this is "obviously the right thing to do," Trump adds. Both Robert F. Kennedy's uncle John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the USA, and his father Robert F. Kennedy were victims of assassinations in the 1960s.
19:08 US Homeland Security Secretary: Trump attack was a security failure
According to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the attack on US presidential candidate Donald Trump represents a security failure. "An incident like this should not occur," Mayorkas told CNN. "When I say it should not occur, we're talking about a failure." Mayorkas was specifically asked if he holds the Secret Service responsible for the security lapse that led to the shooting. The agency is responsible for protecting the current and former presidents and falls under Mayorkas' department. Mayorkas promises an independent and thorough investigation to determine how the shooting at Trump's campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday could have occurred and to make recommendations for security measures accordingly.
18:43 After attack: Trump to announce VP pick Monday
Donald Trump is expected to announce his vice presidential pick on Monday, according to a report by a television network. Fox News anchor Bret Baier said he had spoken with Trump and that the announcement of the vice presidential candidate would take place on Monday. Additionally, there are said to be surprises in store.
5:19 Democratic Senator hopes for signal from Trump
The Democratic Senator Chris Coons, Co-Chair of the Biden-Harris Campaign, hopes that former President Donald Trump will use his platform at the Republican National Convention to follow "President Biden's example." According to CNN, Coons referenced Biden's earlier statements, including his inauguration speech, where he 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."
4:49 Secret Service to support independent investigation
The Director of the Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, has stated that the agency will fully cooperate with an independent review of security arrangements during the attack on Donald Trump's campaign rally on Saturday. According to the "Washington Post," Cheatle said, "We are aware of the significance of President Biden's announcement of an independent review and will participate fully. We will also work with the relevant Congressional committees in all oversight efforts." Biden announced on Sunday that the results would be made public.
4:23 King Charles sends personal message to Donald TrumpThe British King Charles III reportedly sent a personal message to former US President Donald Trump following the attack. The contents of the message were not disclosed. According to the British news agency PA, sources from the palace said the message was in line with a conversation between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Trump.
4:01 Ex-classmates describe shooter Crooks as miserable marksmanThe Trump shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks was reportedly poor at handling firearms, according to statements from former classmates. Speaking to ABC News, Jameson Myers, who attended school with Crooks, said the 20-year-old had tried to join the marksmanship team in his first year at Bethel Park High School but was rejected during tryouts. "He didn't even make it in," Myers said. "He was asked not to return because he was such an incredibly poor marksman. His participation was considered a danger." After that, Crooks did not show up for further practice sessions. An anonymous member of the marksmanship team told ABC News that the shooter "wasn't really suitable for the team." They added, "He also shot terribly."
3:41 Local sharpshooters were supposedly supposed to secure shooter's buildingOne of the two local anti-sniper teams was supposed to secure the building used by the shooter. CNN reported this based on a source familiar with the investigation who wished to remain anonymous. The Pennsylvania State Police denied these allegations and stated they were not involved. The police in Butler County have not commented yet.
3:18 Shooter bought 50 rounds of ammunition shortly before attackThe Trump shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks reportedly bought new ammunition shortly before the attack. CNN reported this based on sources from the security apparatus. According to the report, the shooter purchased only 50 rounds of ammunition at a local gun shop just a few hours before the incident.
15:53 Secret Service Reinforces Measures for Republican Party Convention
After the assassination attempt on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, security preparations for the upcoming Republican Party convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin have been intensified. The director of the responsible Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, stated that her organization has revised and strengthened the plans for protecting the convention following the attack on Saturday. She is now confident that they are prepared for all scenarios.
15:27 Ex-Agent: Trump Assassination Attempt Could Destroy Secret Service
The criticism against Donald Trump's personal security following the assassination attempt is growing 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, this is 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 that Amtsinhaber Joe Biden will win the US election in November. Federal government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit: "Joe Biden's campaign skills should not be underestimated." "It's still too early to believe that the American presidential election has been decided," Hebestreit added. Other politicians, such as Bavaria's Minister-President Markus Söder, have called on the Democrats to persuade Biden to withdraw due to his supposedly poor chances against Trump. Hebestreit emphasized that it is natural in democracies for there to be the possibility of a government change. "That's what makes them attractive for voters, for citizens," he said.
14:41 No Direct Contact Between Scholz and Trump After Attack
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz has not sought direct contact with Republican US Presidential candidate Donald Trump since the attack. However, there have been "communication channels" with both the Democrats and the Republicans, according to Federal Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit. Scholz had met with representatives of both parties during his recent trip to the USA. The German government condemns the attack on Trump clearly. "That was a despicable crime," Hebestreit said.
14:18 Expert Attests Secret Service "Monumental Failure"
Following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, the Secret Service is facing massive criticism. "The protectee was outside the Secret Service zone. What is that, then?" asks Richard Painter, a White House staffer under former President George W. Bush and now a law professor at the University of Minnesota. He sees a "monumental failure" and calls for a detailed investigation. If a roof is within the range of a rifle to reach a President or Presidential candidate, "then it's the Secret Service's job to be on that roof," Painter said. "Have they ever heard of the Texas Book Depository?" That's the building in Dallas, Texas, from which Lee Harvey Oswald shot President John F. Kennedy in 1963 with a rifle.
13:58 Trump Appearance in Milwaukee: Thousands of Additional Police on DutyAt the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee, security measures will be particularly strict. According to the local newspaper "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel," 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. The area around the Fiserv Forum will also be 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, carrying weapons is allowed during the RNC in the surrounding area of the RNC - in accordance with the laws of the state of Wisconsin. The Secret Service has assured, "we are fully prepared." The RNC-designated Secret-Service coordinator Audrey Gibson-Cicchino stated, "I trust that the event will be protected on the highest security level."
13:35 Chinese Company's Stock Surges After Trump Attack Due to Name SimilarityFollowing the attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump, a Chinese technology firm saw a surge in its stock price - all due to its name. The stocks of software provider Wisesoft surged by the daily maximum of ten percent at the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. The company name in Mandarin sounds remarkably similar to the Chinese translation of the phrase "Trump wins big." In China, stock market speculation related to current events is widespread. This often leads to price jumps in all directions that have nothing to do with the numbers and performance of the respective company.
13:06 USA After the Attack: "Time for Vengeance" for Trump and RepublicansThe interpretation of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump is in full swing. Political scientist Andrew B. Denison expects that the former president and the Republicans will assume the martyr role and continue to fan the political hatred:
12:37 Trump Photos T-Shirts Become Top SellerFollowing the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, the online sale of T-shirts with images of the wounded ex-president quickly reached record levels. On the T-Shirts, which cost between nine and forty dollars, Trump is shown with a bloody face, raising his fist defiantly. Printed on them are slogans like "Bulletproof," "Legends never die," and "Shooting makes me stronger." The 25-year-old Li Jinwei, who sells products on the Chinese platform Taobao from Alibaba, immediately designed T-Shirts when she heard about the attack. "We had over 2000 orders within three hours from China and the USA," the businesswoman told media in Hong Kong.
11:55 Many Years Ago: The Man "Who Destroyed American Politics"The shots at Donald Trump during a campaign event mark the provisional low point of the polarizing battle between political factions in the USA. The Republican Party's accusations against the Democrats are "hypocritical," says historian Annika Brockschmidt and explains how political opponents became enemies:
11:19 "The example that political leaders will give in the coming days is crucial"
According to the "Los Angeles Times," regarding the attempted assassination on Ex-President Donald Trump and the beginning of the Republican Party convention, where the 78-year-old is set to be officially declared the presidential candidate, the paper writes: "The example that political leaders will give in the coming days is crucial in determining how the rest of the election campaign will unfold. (...) Trump and the top Republicans gathering in Milwaukee this week carry a special responsibility to not use the assassination attempt as a tool to inflame their base. They must recognize that the US is a powder keg right now, and the heated rhetoric should be toned down before sparks fly. For the moment, they must recognize that violence, once unleashed, is bipartisan." Previously, President Biden had already called on US citizens to renounce violence.
10:42 After Shots on Trump: "The divide in the USA is getting deeper"
Could the attempted assassination on Donald Trump lead to an opportunity for inner-political reconciliation for the American society? Political scientist Thomas Jaeger sees no signs of it. On the contrary, the division in the country could worsen.
10:13 First Analyses: Chances of a Victory in the Election for Trump Increase
Analyst Ipek Ozkardeskaya of Swissquote Bank states that the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump at a campaign rally over the weekend has increased his chances of winning the November election. "The chances for a victory from Trump, who is positively evaluated by the market according to the analyst, rose to 67 percent, compared to 61 percent before the assassination attempt," explains the analyst. "Although the assassination attempt 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."
09:54 The Attack as a Campaign Boost? Boese: Berlin is preparing for Trump 2.0
The German government has been preparing for the possibility that Donald Trump could return to the White House for some time. As NTV correspondent Heike Boese summarizes in her report:
09:25 "Heated Moments Could Become Extremely Dangerous"
German SPD party chair Saskia Esken, in an interview with RTL/ntv's "Morgenmagazin," states regarding the question of whether the assassination attempt will boost Trump's chances: "It's to be expected, yes, that he and especially his supporters will use this incident to further fan the flames. We have experienced similar situations in the past, which have ended up, for example, at the Capitol. Such heated moments could become extremely dangerous, not only in terms of a victory in the election." When asked how Germany and the German government should react if Trump wins the presidential elections, Esken states: "It's long been clear that the German government, as well as governments in Europe, are aware that they need to draw closer together."
08:48 "Have we overlooked something?" - Secret Service under scrutiny after Trump attack
After the attack on Donald Trump, the Secret Service is under scrutiny. Following the incident, the Congress will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the previous tragedy to determine where security lapses occurred and what else the American people need to know. Speaking to NBC, Republican spokesperson Mike Johnson stated, "The Congress will conduct a full investigation of the recent incident to establish where security gaps existed and what else the American public deserves to know." Robert E. McDonald, a professor at the University of New Haven who worked for the Secret Service for 20 years, also commented in the "New York Times": "Have we overlooked something? And if we have, we must stand up and take responsibility for it." McDonald wonders why the Secret Service did not secure the building with snipers.
08:05 Secret Service under fire: Shots at Trump: "Officer may have followed the assailant"
Following the planned attack on Donald Trump, the Secret Service faces numerous questions. Trump himself has only commented on the incident on Truth Social, and the Republican convention is approaching. ntv correspondent Christopher Wittich summarizes the latest developments.
07:34 After the attack: Biden doesn't want a "battlefield"
US President Biden spoke out on the attack on his political adversary Donald Trump in a speech and on social media. In a post on X, the 81-year-old wrote, "Disagreements are inevitable in American democracy. They are part of human nature. But politics should never be a literal battlefield or, God forbid, a deadly one."
06:57 The attack has turned everything upside down
The Sydney Morning Herald writes about the attack on Donald Trump: "US President Joe Biden faces a delicate balancing act as America continues to reel from the attack on his greatest 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 had the mental and physical strength to beat the disruptive Republicans in the November election. The strategy was simple: present the strengths of his accomplishments in 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. However, the attack on the former president on Saturday has turned everything upside down. Facing the fear 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: Trump has arrived in Milwaukee
Following the primary elections in individual states, both the Democrats and Republicans must officially confirm their overall results on a national level. This is done at the nomination conventions. The Democrats will gather for this purpose in mid-August in Chicago, Illinois. The Republican nomination convention, on the other hand, takes place 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 prevented from holding a large, pompous event due to the pandemic.
06:14 The Trump assassination attempt affects the stock market
Asian stock markets react with uncertainty to the attempted assassination of US presidential candidate Donald Trump. Investors are concerned about potential implications on future US economic policy. Bond yields for government bonds increased, 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," says Rong Ren Goh, Portfolio Manager at Eastspring Investments in Singapore. "We may observe some of these developments in the coming week if the chances of this event improve further."
05:56 Trump: I'm only thinking about that small head movement now
Following the assassination attempt at a campaign rally, Donald Trump calls for calm and unity. "This is an opportunity to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together," Trump tells the "Washington Examiner." The incident deeply affected him. He now realizes the significance of the moment ("Reality is just setting in"). Trump survived the attack because he turned away from the crowd at the decisive moment. "I rarely turn my back on the crowd. If I had done so in that moment, we wouldn't be having this conversation, or?"
05:22 NYT: Explosives found in Trump assassination suspect's house
More information is coming to light about the Trump assassination suspect. In addition to the rudimentary explosives found in Thomas Matthew Crooks' car, the 20-year-old is reported to have had potential explosives in his house. This is according to sources familiar with the investigation, as reported by the "New York Times."
04:46 Trump assassination suspect was a member of a shooting range
According to US media, the Trump assassination suspect was a member of a shooting range. "The Clairton Sportsmen's Club can confirm that Thomas Matthew Crooks was a member," states a statement from the club's attorney, Robert Bootay. "Beyond that, the club cannot provide any further comment on this matter due to ongoing police investigations." The Clairton Sportsmen's Club operates a wooded facility in the southern hills of Pittsburgh with a 200-yard shooting range.
03:31 German government preparing for possible Trump re-election
The German government is preparing for a potential second presidency of Donald Trump, according to its Transatlantic Coordinator Michael Link. "Besides the intensive preparations of the German government, which are running very intensively and of course confidentially 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 therefore been intensively networking with the competent colleagues in CDU and CSU on the topic of preparation for a possible scenario Trump 2.0," says the FDP politician. Previously, Jens Spahn, the deputy chair of the CDU, and Anton Hofreiter, the green chairman of the Bundestag European Affairs Committee, had called on Germany to better prepare for a potential Trump re-election.
02:25 Biden calls for de-escalation in the campaign
US President Joe Biden urged for de-escalation in the US campaign following the attack on his predecessor and political opponent Donald Trump. "We settle our differences at the ballot box. That's how it works - at the ballot box, not with bullets," Biden said 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 reminded Americans that they were "neighbors and friends, not enemies." Biden expressed relief that Trump was not seriously injured in the incident. He acknowledged that the campaign had been marked by highly heated political rhetoric but emphasized the high stakes of the upcoming presidential elections.
01:46 Biden resumes campaign planning
Following a brief campaign pause due to the attack on his predecessor and political rival Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden plans to resume 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 scheduled to attend a local campaign event in the desert metropolis in the US state of Nevada. Biden had canceled a trip to Texas scheduled for Monday and cut short a weekend stay in the state of Delaware to return to the White House.
01:04 Still and frequently bullied: What is known about the shooter Matthew Crooks
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the Trump shooter as the 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 described him as a "quiet" student who often seemed "lonely," as reported by ABC News. One classmate said Crooks had been socially withdrawn. He could not remember having heard Crooks discuss politics in general or Trump in particular. Jason Kohler, who attended the same high school as the alleged shooter, told reporters that Crooks had been 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 shoot in the wrong place": US Democrat fires employee for Facebook post
Democratic US Representative Bennie Thompson of Mississippi fired an employee who posted on social media that she wished the Trump attacker had better aim. According to "New York Times," Jacqueline Marsaw wrote on Facebook: "I don't condone violence, but please take marksmanship classes so you don't shoot the wrong person next time. Oops, that wasn't me who spoke." Thompson, who represents Mississippi's second district in the US House of Representatives, writes on X, expresses gratitude that Trump is doing well. He adds that there is no place for political violence in America's democracy.
23:50 No intensification of security measures at Republican Party convention
The Secret Service representative in charge of security for the Republican Party convention shares that the measures for the large event have not been intensified yet. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson does not see the possibility of banning weapons in the external area of the event venue in Wisconsin as an additional precaution. Carrying firearms is protected by state laws, he says. At the Mega-Event, Donald Trump is expected to be officially declared the Republican Party's presidential candidate during the week. Trump is making efforts to avoid giving the impression of weakness: He announced that he would travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the US federal state for the party convention on Sunday afternoon (local time). The gathering is taking place there.
23:21 Motive of the shooter still unclear
After the shooting at 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 make assumptions and to let the law enforcement agencies do their work.
22:53 Financial markets expect "landslide victory for Trump"
After the attempted shooting at US presidential candidate Donald Trump, financial markets must re-evaluate. The bullet that hit Trump at a campaign rally could increase his chances of winning the election - and therefore, investors expect the markets to react strongly, they say. "The election is likely to be a landslide. That reduces uncertainty," 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 recovery and investors to focus on a steeper yield curve for US Treasury bonds.
22:07 Injured attendees in stable condition
The two people who were seriously injured in the shooting attempt on Donald Trump are in stable condition, according to Pennsylvania police. At the campaign rally, a man from the audience was killed. The alleged shooter was shot and killed by security personnel. Trump was lightly wounded, and two attendees were seriously injured.
21:57 FBI: The suspect acted alone, no ideology identifiable yet
The FBI issues a warning: The alleged shooter acted alone, there are no further threats 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 indications of an ideology or a psychological condition of the alleged attacker yet. The weapon was legally purchased, presumably by the suspect's father. Bomb experts have also secured a suspicious device in the alleged attacker's car, which has been taken to the lab for further investigation.
21:42 Starmer phones Trump
Britain's new Prime Minister Keir Starmer has phoned Trump, according to government sources. He condemned the violence and expressed his condolences for the victims and their families, it is reported. Starmer wished Trump and the other injured a quick recovery, reports the British news agency PA.
21:16 They will be waiting: Söder gives Democrats an "external recommendation"
"Violence is certainly not a means of dispute resolution," says CSU chief Markus Söder and wishes 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 Republican Party convention in Wisconsin soon
Just a day after the attack on him, former US President Donald Trump plans to travel to the Republican Party convention in 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 cancels trip to Texas
US President Joe Biden cancels a planned trip to Texas. The White House announces this. Biden was supposed to leave for Texas on Monday. After the shootings at Trump on Saturday evening local time in the state of Pennsylvania, Biden had already cut short a weekend stay in Delaware and returned to the White House prematurely.
20:11 Biden announces heightened security measures for Republican Party convention and calls for unity
US President Joe Biden announces a speech to the nation and calls for unity. "We must come together as a nation," Biden says at the White House and announces that he will address the American people in an official statement from the Oval Office on Monday evening (in the German night to Tuesday). For the Republican Party 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. In the morning, Biden and his deputy Kamala Harris were briefed by law enforcement and security agencies on the latest investigation status.
20:07 Live on ntv: Biden comments on Trump assassination attempt
US-President Joe Biden comments at this hour on the attempted assassination of his rival Donald Trump. Biden had already expressed himself a few hours after the incident on Saturday and stated, "there's no place for this kind of violence in America." He then called Trump. Biden was briefed in the morning by the heads of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Secret Service, the security service for presidents and former presidents, about the status of the investigations.
19:43 Firefighter threw himself in front of family and died "as a hero"
The audience member killed during a campaign event by former US President Donald Trump in the state of Pennsylvania was a firefighter and family man. This was announced by the democratic governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, and he said he had spoken with his wife and daughters. The man died "as a hero" and threw himself over his family to protect them when the shots fell during the Trump rally. He was a "passionate supporter" of Trump. Besides the one man in the crowd who died, two other spectators were injured. Shapiro said their condition was still critical.
19:13 Many Republicans see blame with Biden and the Democrats
The overwhelming majority of Republicans in Congress offer prayers and support for former President Donald Trump in the hours following the attack on a campaign event in Butler. According to the "Washington Post," approximately 30 of them directly blame US President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party, or journalists for the alleged incitement to the attack - despite Biden's clear condemnation of the act and his statement that "political violence must be denounced by everyone."
18:44 Former German US ambassador: Copycats 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. "Copycats - against Trump - or avengers - against Joe Biden - are more likely," he tells the "Tagesspiegel." This applies all the more because "multiple conspiracy theories are confusing the already uncertain American electorate." Michael Link, the Transatlantic Coordinator of the German government, also fears further political polarization in the US. "That must not happen. It's important now to maintain calm and respect. That's what President Joe Biden did with his call to Trump," says the FDP politician.
18:06 Trump supporters see confirmed conspiracy theories
The shots at Donald Trump could be decisive for the upcoming US presidential election, explains Frank Umbach. The security expert finds it "incomprehensible" that there were no follow-up actions on the shooter's hints and praises the Democrats for "the right reaction."
17:37 "He will never stop fighting for the salvation of America" - Trump's children express themselves
Donald Trump's children 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 along with 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 for her father's life. "Political violence is never the answer", she writes, thanks the law enforcement agencies and the Secret Service, and honors 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 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 The assassin also had explosives in his car
According to the "Wall Street Journal", the Trump assassin also had explosives in his car. The car near the crime scene was secured, reports the newspaper, citing unidentified sources. The weapon used in the attack was bought by the father of the suspected assassin, reports the newspaper and ABC News further. It is said to be an AR-15 rifle. The AR-15 was developed in the 1950s, initially for the military. The AR-15 is the civilian version of this weapon. Technically speaking, it is not possible to fire continuously with this weapon. Skilled shooters can, however, fire many shots in a very short time.
16:59 Now Melania Trump speaks out
After the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, Melania Trump also speaks out. The man who was killed in the attack was a "monster" who tried to "extinguish Donald's passion, his laughter, his creativity, his love of music, and his enthusiasm", explains the former First Lady of the USA on Twitter. 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 Secret Service agents protecting her husband.
16:26 "You are not behind me, you are behind each other" - Trump campaign starts 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 assassination generates sympathy for Trump", Bannon says. "It confirms the belief 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 attack, Trump's campaign starts 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 Republican Party Convention: Republicans working with 40 law enforcement agenciesRepublican Party Chairman Michael Whatley assures that the agencies are working intensely to ensure security at the upcoming convention in Milwaukee. They are working with 40 different law enforcement agencies, as Whatley mentions in an interview on Fox News, but he does not specify the precautions that have been taken.
15:44 Top Trump Campaign Advisors: "Please report anything suspicious immediately"Top advisors of Donald Trump's campaign team advise caution. "We are enhancing 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 anything seems suspicious, please report it immediately to the leadership or the on-site security team," it continues.
15:24 Witnesses describe chaotic scenes at Trump assassination attemptDuring Trump's campaign rally in Pennsylvania, shots were fired, causing chaos and panic. Witnesses speak of speculation about fireworks, the sound of gunshots, gunfire on the roof, and the moment Trump fell to the ground.
14:58 Leading Republican: "We need to tone down the rhetoric"Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Republican Mike Johnson, is working to calm nerves. "We need to tone down the rhetoric," he says on MSNBC. "We need to lower the temperature in this country."
14:30 Expert: Trump assassination attempt is an opportunity for Biden
14:03 Trump calls for unity"It's more important than ever that we come together," writes Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform. He is already looking forward to speaking in Wisconsin "to our great country" this week. The Republican National Convention is taking place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from Monday to Thursday. Trump writes further, "I pray for the wounded, and we hold the memory of the fallen citizen in our hearts." Trump had already called for unity in his inaugural address as US President in January 2017.
12:58 NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg shocked by assassination attemptNATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is shocked by the attack on Trump. "I am shocked by the attempted assassination of former President Trump," Stoltenberg writes on X. He wishes Trump 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 the shooter's shots and the Secret Service's shotsThe American gossip news site TMZ shows a video in which it appears that both the shooter's gunshots and the Secret Service's gunshots can be heard. The attack triggered panic among the onlookers. The recording was made from outside the area where the rally was taking place, as TMZ reports.
11:40 Secret Service refutes Republican's allegationThe Secret Service has refuted the allegation that they had denied additional security resources to Trump in the last few 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 Ministry is absolutely false", said Secret-Service-Spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi. In fact, the Secret Service had recently increased security measures.
A few hours after the attack, Republican Representative Michael Waltz stated that he had "very reliable sources" who said that there had been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump. Waltz did not provide any evidence.
11:16 Steinmeier wishes Trump swift recoveryFederal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the family of the victim's family: "I condemn the attack on the 45th US President, Donald J. Trump", Steinmeier wrote in a statement. "Violence has no place in our democracy - not in America, not here. We can all contribute: Let us respect violence in political disputes! Let us reject hatred and incitement from election campaigns and debates! Democracy tolerates sharp controversies - but violence destroys democracy. Donald J. Trump and the injured person wish a swift recovery. My deepest condolences go to the family of the victim of the attack."
10:32 Expert: "Trump produced that image directly and instinctively"Seconds after the shots were fired, Donald Trump was seen raising his fist at Secret Service agents, covered in blood. Political scientist Thomas Jaeger sees the "master of political marketing" at work here. It remains to be seen if Trump will be able to continue spinning his "witch hunt" narrative.
10:10 Sharpshooter seemed to have noticed the assassin just before the first shotsA video posted on X shows a sharpshooter at the Trump rally in exactly the moment when the shots were fired. Sharpshooters are used at such events by the Secret Service to secure the surroundings - which apparently did not work in this case. The sharpshooter seems to be observing something or someone through his telescopic sight. He recoils, just before the shots can be heard, suggesting that he became aware of the shooter as a threat in that moment. Shortly thereafter, the shooter was shot.
09:23 A participant warned of the assassin before the shootingBefore the shots were fired at Trump's campaign rally in Butler, participants had noticed a man with a rifle on a roof nearby. One of them, Greg Smith, told on-site security personnel: "Hey man, there's a guy with a rifle on the roof", he later told the BBC. The response was: "Ha ha, what?", as if the security forces did not know what was going on. "I thought: Why is Trump still speaking, why didn't they take him off the stage? ... The next thing I heard were five shots."
09:15 Scholz condemns attempted attack on Trump as despicableFederal Chancellor Olaf Scholz comments on the assassination attempt against Trump: "The attempt on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump is despicable. I wish him a quick recovery. My thoughts are also with the people affected by the attack. Such acts threaten democracy."
08:28 Photographer captures image of possible projectileDoug Mills, a photographer for the "New York Times," apparently took a photo at the exact moment a bullet narrowly missed Trump. The photo "could very well show the air displacement from a projectile," says Michael Harrigan, a retired FBI agent who spoke to the newspaper. In theory, it's possible to photograph a flying bullet, Harrigan added. Mills used a Sony Digital camera at the Trump rally, which can take up to 30 images per second. The photo was taken with a shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds.
08:00 Alleged shooter registered as a RepublicanThe FBI has identified the suspect. He is a man named Thomas Matthew Crooks. The 20-year-old suspect, who was killed during the shooting, is from the small town of Bethel Park in the US state of Pennsylvania, about 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 donated at the age of 17. He registered as a Republican member in September 2021 when he turned 18.
07:46 Expert: "Secret Service needs to answer some questions"Donald Trump, as a former President and candidate, is under the protection of the Secret Service. There are strict security measures in place at all campaign events, as Obama's former campaign advisor Julius van de Laar reports. It now needs to be clarified how such an attacker was able to approach, writes van de Laar.
07:38 World leaders react in shockWorld leaders reacted in shock to the attack on former President Trump. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen writes on X, she is deeply shocked, wishes Trump a quick recovery, and expresses her condolences to the innocent victim's family. "Political violence has no place in a democracy," writes von der Leyen. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expresses similar sentiments. "My thoughts are with former President Trump, the participants of the event, and all Americans."
The United Nations also condemns the attack on Trump. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns this act of political violence," says the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "He wishes President Trump a quick recovery." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 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." Zelensky also wishes Trump a quick recovery.
Already on Saturday evening (local time), Biden stated that he was grateful that Trump was safe and in good health. 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 and finds it "surprising" that the protector was able to fire several shots. In response to questions about security measures, he states that such questions should be answered by the Secret Service. Despite its name, the Secret Service is not a secret service, but rather responsible for the security of US Presidents and former US Presidents.
"They conduct the initial security assessments and determine where the various security locations should be," 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 says.
07:04 Trump in New Jersey, apparently unharmedA Trump spokesperson posts a video that shows Trump leaving an airport in New Jersey without assistance. His injured ear is not visible in the video. The Republicans have announced that the nomination convention will take place as planned; the convention will take place from Monday to Thursday in Milwaukee. There, Trump will officially be nominated as the Republican presidential candidate. US President Biden shared that the Democrats will stop all campaign ads as soon as possible.
06:50 Shooter fired from a roof near the rallyAnthony Guglielmi, a spokesperson for the Secret Service, says 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 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." The FBI officially 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 say whether it was a lone gunman. However, there is no indication of "any further threat."
06:25 Media: Trump discharged from hospitalTrump was discharged from the hospital late Saturday evening (local time) according to a report by the news agency Bloomberg.
06:01 FBI confirms attempted assassination of Ex-President Trump at rallyThe US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has classified the incident at a campaign rally in the US state of Pennsylvania as an "attempted assassination" against former President Donald Trump. "This is an attempt to assassinate our former President Donald Trump," FBI Agent Kevin Rojek says in Butler, the location of the rally. According to authorities, Trump was injured in the ear by the gunfire, and in addition to the suspected shooter, a bystander was killed and two others were seriously injured.
03:58 Republicans to hold convention despite Trump attackThe US Republicans plan to hold their nominating convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as scheduled this week, according to a joint statement from the party and Trump's campaign team. The Republicans are set to gather in Milwaukee starting on Monday to officially nominate the 78-year-old Trump as their presidential candidate.
03:54 Shooter fired from "elevated position"During the attack on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, the alleged shooter opened fire from an "elevated position" outside the event venue. One person was killed and two others were seriously injured, according to the Secret Service. Initially, it was reported that one person had been severely injured.
02:55 Trump: I was hit by a bullet in the earFormer US President Donald Trump claimed in a post on his Truth Social platform that he was injured by a bullet during the attack at a campaign event in Pennsylvania. "I was hit by a bullet in the ear, which pierced the upper part of my right ear," Trump wrote.
00:33 Shots fired at Trump: Security escorts ex-president off stageFormer US President Donald Trump was escorted off the stage during a campaign event in Pennsylvania after shots were fired. In images, Trump can be seen with a bloody ear and raised fist.
In light of the emerging political landscape, here are two sentences that utilize the given words:
- Despite the attack on Donald Trump stirring up doubt among some Democrats, Joe Biden has announced his intention to run for the United States Presidency Election 2024.
- Speculations are rife that if the United States Presidency Election 2024 turns into a contest between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, the politics will once again become highly polarized.
