22:11 After attacked: Robert F. Kennedy receives Secret-Service protection
After the assassination attempt on his predecessor Donald Trump, US-President Joe Biden ordered personal protection for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. through the Secret Service. "Given the events of the weekend, the President has directed me to work with the Secret Service to protect Robert Kennedy Jr.", said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Monday to journalists. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the son of the former Attorney General and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, who was shot at in 1968, five years after his brother John F. Kennedy was also assassinated. Trump had previously asked Biden to offer Kennedy appropriate protective measures (see entry at 19:41).
21:41 Republican Party Leader in the Senate Heckled at Party Convention
Booing sounds were heard as Mitch McConnell, the leader of the minority in the Senate from Kentucky, took the microphone during the nomination of Donald Trump as the official Republican candidate for the presidency in the November election.
21:14 1700 Members of the US Military at Republican Party Convention
At the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, approximately 1700 members of the military are in service. A Pentagon spokesperson explained to CNN. Most of these 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 24-hour tasks.
20:51 Attack stirs up campaign: These Democrats could replace Biden
The attack on Donald Trump brings new momentum to the debate about whether Joe Biden should continue to run for the Democrats. Given the mental instability of the incumbent president and the apparent Republican victory, three potential Democratic candidates are currently emerging in Biden's party.
20:29 Republican Party Convention Officially Begins in Milwaukee
Overshadowed by the attack on Donald Trump, the US Republican Party Convention officially began. The delegates of the party are gathering in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, until Thursday, to formally declare Trump the presidential candidate. This is expected to happen on Monday evening. The delegates will cast their votes based on the results of the internal primaries. The process is considered a formality - Trump has already secured 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. Biden is being pushed into a role that contradicts his original plans, says political scientist Thomas Hunter. Trump's peace offer is not to be taken seriously. Hunter sees many open questions in the circumstances of the attack.
19:41 Trump calls for Secret Service protection for rival Kennedy
Former President Donald Trump calls for Secret Service protection for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following the shootings at a campaign event. Kennedy should "immediately" receive protection, Trump writes on his own social network Truth Social. Given the history of the Kennedy family, this is "obviously the right thing to do", according to Trump. 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 Home Security Minister: Trump Attack was a FailureUS Home Security Minister Alejandro Mayorkas described the attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump as a failure in an interview with CNN. "An incident like this should not occur," 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 held the Secret Service responsible for the failure that led to the attack during Trump's campaign rally in the US state of Pennsylvania on Saturday. The agency is responsible for the protection of the sitting and former presidents and falls under Mayorkas' ministry. Mayorkas has promised an independent and thorough investigation to determine how the attack on Trump occurred and to make recommendations for security measures.
18:43 Trump to Announce VP Pick MondayDonald Trump is expected to announce his vice presidential pick on Monday, according to a report by Fox News. The host Bret Baier stated that he had spoken with Trump and that Trump had confirmed the announcement would take place on Monday. There are also expected to be other surprises, Baier added.
18:19 Democratic Senator Hopes for Trump's EndorsementSenator Chris Coons (D-DE), Co-Chair of the Biden-Harris campaign, expressed hope that former President Donald Trump would use his platform at the Republican National Convention to follow the example of President Biden. During an interview on CNN, Coons cited Biden's earlier statements, including his inaugural address, in which he called for unity among the American people. Coons' remarks come after Trump told the "Washington Examiner" on Sunday that he would revise his original speech, stating that it could bring "the whole country, even the whole world, together."
17:49 Secret Service to Support Independent InvestigationThe Director of the Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, has stated that the agency will fully cooperate with an independent review of the security arrangements during the attack on Donald Trump at his campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. According to the "Washington Post," the Secret Service will also work with relevant congressional committees in their oversight efforts. Cheatle acknowledged the significance of President Biden's announcement of an independent investigation and pledged the agency's cooperation.
17:23 King Charles Sends Personal Message to TrumpBritish King Charles III has reportedly sent a personal message to former US President Donald Trump following the attack on Saturday. The contents of the message were not disclosed. It was consistent with a conversation between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Trump, according to the British Press Association, citing sources in the palace.
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 rifle team during 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 his shooting was so incredibly poor, and his participation was considered dangerous." After that, Crooks no longer showed up for practice sessions. An anonymous member of the rifle team told the sender that the Trump assassination suspect "wasn't really suitable for the team." He added, "He also shot terribly."
16:41 Local sharpshooters should have secured suspect's building, allegedly
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. The Pennsylvania State Police denied the related allegations and stated they were not involved. The Butler County Police have not commented.
16:18 Shooter bought 50 rounds of ammunition shortly before the attack
Trump assassination suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks bought ammunition shortly before the attack, according to CNN, citing sources from the security sector. The shooter reportedly purchased 50 rounds of ammunition at a local gun shop just a few hours before the incident.
15:53 Secret Service intensifies security measures for Republican convention
Following the attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, security measures for the upcoming Republican convention have been intensified by the authorities. Kimberly Cheatle, the director of the responsible Secret Service, stated that her organization had revised and strengthened the plans for protecting the convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is now confident they are prepared for all scenarios.
15:27 Former agent: Trump assassination attempt could devastate Secret Service
Following the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, criticism of his security detail is growing. 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 Amtsinhaber Joe Biden to win the US election, despite the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit stated, "One should not underestimate the campaign skills of Joe Biden." 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 previously called on Biden to withdraw from the race, as he was seen as having no chance against Trump. Hebestreit emphasized that it is natural for democracies to have 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 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"
The Secret Service is under heavy criticism following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. "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 security 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's the Secret Service that should be on that roof," says Painter. "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 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 have been deployed according to the local newspaper "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel," in addition to the city's police forces. The area around the Fiserv Forum has been 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 to be carried during the convention in accordance with Wisconsin state laws. The Secret Service has announced that they are "fully prepared." The coordinator for the convention's Secret Service, Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, states that she trusts that the event will be protected at "highest security levels."
13:35 Chinese firm's stock soars after Trump attack due to name similarity
Following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, a Chinese technology firm's stock soared on the stock exchange - all because of its name. The shares of software provider Wisesoft surged by the daily maximum of ten percent at the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. 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 linked to current events is common. 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 After the attack on Trump: "Time for revenge" for USA and Republicans
The battle for interpretation of the attack on Donald Trump is in full swing. Political scientist Andrew B. Denison expects that the former President and the Republicans will assume the role of martyrs and continue to fan the political hate: [
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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 former President skyrocketed online. Images of Trump with blood on his face, raising his fist defiantly, are printed on these T-Shirts, which sell for prices between nine and forty dollars. Slogans like "Bulletproof", "Legends never die", and "Shooting makes me stronger" are also printed on them. The 25-year-old Li Jinwei, who sells products on the Chinese platform Taobao from Alibaba, quickly designed T-Shirts after hearing about the incident. "Within three hours, we had over 2000 orders from China and the USA," the businesswoman told the 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 clashes between political factions in the USA. The accusations of the Republicans against the Democrats were "hypocritical," says historian Annika Brockschmidt and explains how political enemies 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 election campaign will unfold. (...) Trump and the top Republicans gathering in Milwaukee this week bear a special responsibility for not using the attack as a means to inflame their base. They must recognize that America 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 USA will deepen
Could the attempted assassination of Donald Trump be a moment of inner political reconciliation for American society? Political scientist Thomas Jaeger sees no signs of it. On the contrary, the split in the country could worsen.
10:13 Initial analyses: Chances of a victory at 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 victory for Trump, who is positively evaluated by the market according to the analyst, 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 prepares 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. Many in political Berlin have less than pleasant memories of his first term, 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 of whether the attack on Trump could enhance his chances of re-election: "It's to be expected, yes, that he and especially his supporters will use this incident to further heat up the situation. We have experienced similar situations in the past, which ended up at the Capitol in chaos. These heated moments, they could now become extremely dangerous, not only in terms of a victory." Regarding how Germany and the German government should react if Trump wins the presidency, the SPD Chairwoman states: "It's only natural that the German government, as well as governments in Europe, are aware that we need to get closer."
08:48 "Have We Overlooked Something?" - Secret Service Faces Consequences
Following the attack on Donald Trump, the Secret Service is under scrutiny. The service failed to provide adequate protection for the ex-president. Spokesperson Mike Johnson, a Republican and Trump supporter, speaking to NBC, states: "There will be a comprehensive investigation into yesterday's tragedy to determine where there were gaps in security and what the American people still need to know." Robert E. McDonald, a professor at the University of New Haven who worked for the Secret Service for 20 years, also tells the "New York Times": "Have we overlooked something? And if we have overlooked something, 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 Scrutiny: Shots Fired at Trump: "Was the Officer the Assassin?"
Following the planned attack on Donald Trump, the Secret Service must answer many 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: 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: "Differences of opinion are unavoidable in 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 attack threw everything into disarray"
The Sydney Morning Herald writes about the attack on Donald Trump for the Australians: "US-President Joe Biden is facing a delicate balancing act, as America is still reeling from the attack on its biggest 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 performance 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 thrown everything into disarray. Facing the fear of escalating violence, Biden knows he cannot further fuel 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 overall results on a national level. This is done at their respective 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 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 prevented from holding a large, pompous event due to the pandemic.
06:14 The stock market reacts to the Trump assassination attempt
Asian stock markets react with uncertainty to the attempted assassination of US presidential candidate Donald Trump. Investors are concerned about potential consequences 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 yield 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 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 about the moment that likely saved his life: a small head movement that caused the bullet to miss his head and hit his ear instead. "The most incredible thing was that I not only turned, but exactly at the right time and to the right extent," Trump said in a speech on board his 757 as he flew to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention. "If I had only turned half, 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 is probably less than one in ten percent, 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 peace and unity. "This is a chance to bring the whole country, indeed the whole world together," Trump told the "Washington Examiner" newspaper. The incident deeply disturbed him. He now realizes what happened ("Reality is just setting in"). Trump survived the attack because he turned away from the crowd in a 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: Possible explosives 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 sources familiar with the investigation.
04:15 Trump-Attacker was a member of a rifle club
According to US media, the Trump attacker was a member of a rifle club. "The Clairton Sportsmen's Club can confirm that Thomas Matthew Crooks was a member," the club's lawyer, Robert Bootay, said in a statement. "Beyond that, the Club cannot make any further comments regarding 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 planning for Trump's 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. "Besides the intensive preparations of the German government, which are running very intensively but self-evidently 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 been networking intensively with the competent colleagues in the CDU and CSU on the topic of preparing for a possible scenario Trump 2.0 for a long time." Previously, the deputy CDU faction leader Jens Spahn and the green chairman of the Bundestag European Affairs Committee, Anton Hofreiter, had 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 appealed 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 we do it - 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 are "neighbors and friends, not enemies." Biden expressed relief that Trump was not seriously injured in the attack. Biden acknowledged that the campaign had been marked by very heated political rhetoric but emphasized the high stakes of the upcoming presidential elections.
01:46 Biden resumes campaign planning
After a brief campaign pause following 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 scheduled to participate in a local campaign event in the desert metropolis of Nevada. Biden cancelled a trip to Texas on Monday and cut short a weekend stay in Delaware to return to the White House.
01:04 Quiet 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 cannot remember hearing Crooks talk about politics in general or Trump specifically. Jason Kohler, who claims to have attended the same high school as the alleged shooter, tells 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, he is grateful that 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 representative 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 to avoid giving the impression of weakness: He announced that he would travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Sunday afternoon (local time) for 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 remains unclear. "We have yet to receive any information about 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 job.
22:53 Financial markets expect "landslide victory for Trump"
Following the attempted attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, financial markets need to reposition themselves. The bullet that wounded the Republican at a campaign rally could boost Trump's chances of winning - and thus, financial markets may be significantly affected, investors say. "The election will likely be a landslide. This 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 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 severely injured in the attempted attack on Donald Trump are in stable condition, according to Pennsylvania police. At a campaign rally, a man in the audience was killed. The alleged shooter was shot by security guards. Trump was lightly wounded, while two attendees were severely injured.
21:57 FBI: Shooter acted alone, no ideology identified yet
The FBI issues 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 terrorist attack and an attempted assassination. The FBI is investigating the social media accounts of the 20-year-old suspect. However, there have been no discernible indications of an ideology or a mental illness on the part of the alleged shooter. The weapon was legally purchased, presumably 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 spoken with the wounded former US President Trump, according to government sources. He condemned the violence and expressed his condolences to the victims and their families. Trump and the other injured were wished a quick recovery by the British news agency PA.
21:16 They will wait for this: Söder gives Democrats an "external recommendation"
"Violence is certainly not a means of dispute resolution," says CSU chairman 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 plans 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, according to a post on the online platform Truth Social. He writes that he will leave for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the late afternoon local time on Sunday 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 intended 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 the American people in the evening (in the US night on Monday) 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 informed of the latest investigation status by law enforcement and security agencies in the morning.
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 a few hours after the incident on Saturday and declared, "There is no place for this kind of violence in America." He then spoke on the phone with Trump. Biden was briefed on the status of the investigations by the heads of the FBI and the Secret Service, the security service for presidents and former presidents, in the morning.
19:43 Firefighter threw himself in front of 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. Democratic Governor of Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro announced this and 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 one man in the crowd who died, two other spectators were injured. Shapiro said their condition was critical.
19:13 Many Republicans blame Biden and the Democrats
The overwhelming 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 "political violence must be denounced by everyone."
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 because "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. "This must not happen. It's important now to maintain calm and respect. President Joe Biden did this 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 shootings 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
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 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 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 have seen 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, also 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 also 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 also 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 incident, Trump's campaign launched 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 will be conducted. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of all staff," the "Washington Post" quotes 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 the 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 gunfire, 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 things down. "We need to lower 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 BidenA leading expert sees the opportunity in the Trump assassination attempt 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 inaugural speech as US President in January 2017.
12:58 NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg shocked by assassination attempt NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is shocked by the assassination attempt on Trump. "I am shocked by the attempted assassination of 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 shots of the assassin and shots of the Secret Service The American gossip news site TMZ shows a video in which it appears that both the shots of the assassin and the shots that likely saved Trump's life can be heard. The attack caused panic among onlookers. The recording was made from outside the area where the rally was taking place, as TMZ reports.
11:40 Secret Service denies Republican allegation 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 protection for President Trump. Waltz did not provide evidence.
11:16 Steinmeier expresses condolences to Trump family Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemns the assassination attempt and expresses his condolences to the family of the victim: "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 that image directly, instinctively" Seconds after the shots were fired, Trump rises up, covered in blood, and raises his fist at Secret Service agents. Political scientist Thomas Jäger 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 did not go as planned. 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 afterwards, the assassinator was shot.
09:23 Participant warned of the assassinator 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, informed the 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?", implying that 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 gunshots."
09:15 Scholz condemns the attackFederal Chancellor Olaf Scholz comments on the Trump assassination attempt on X: "The attack 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 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 very moment when a bullet came close to Donald Trump. Michael Harrigan, a retired FBI agent, told the newspaper that "the photo could very well show the air displacement caused by a projectile". In general, it is possible to photograph a flying bullet, Harrigan explained. Mills used a Sony digital camera at the Trump rally, which can take up to 30 pictures 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 alleged shooter as a man named Thomas Matthew Crooks. The 20-year-old, who was killed during the assassination 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 a former President and candidate, is under the protection of the Secret Service. There are the highest security precautions in place at all campaign events, as Obama's former campaign advisor Julius van de Laar reports. It remains to be clarified how it was possible that a shooter was able to attack, despite these measures.
07:38 World leaders shocked by attack on TrumpState and government heads around the world have reacted in shock to 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 her condolences to the innocent victim's family. "Political violence has no place in a democracy," she writes. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expresses his thoughts with Trump, the participants of the event, and all Americans.
The United Nations condemns the attack on Trump. "The Secretary-General condemns this act of political violence in the strongest terms," explains the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General 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.
On Saturday evening (local time), Biden stated that he was grateful that 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 agent was able to fire several shots. 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 (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 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 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 suspected shooter 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." 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 say whether 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 the news agency Bloomberg, Trump was discharged from the hospital late on Saturday evening (local time).
06:01 FBI confirms attempted murder against ex-President Trump at rallyFollowing shootings at a campaign event in the US state of Pennsylvania, the FBI has classified the incident as an "attempted murder" against former President Donald Trump. "This is an attempt against our former president Donald Trump," FBI agent Kevin Rojek said in Butler, the location of the rally. Trump was injured in the ear from the gunshots, according to law enforcement, and a bystander was killed and two others were seriously injured.
04:41 Biden calls Trump after attackUS President Joe Biden personally called Trump after the attack, the White House announced without disclosing the contents of the conversation. On Sunday, Biden will be briefed by law enforcement agencies about the status of the investigation, 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 this known in a joint statement. The Republicans will gather in Milwaukee, Wisconsin starting Monday for their nominating convention to officially nominate the 78-year-old as their presidential candidate.
03:54 Shooter fired from "elevated position"In 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, the Secret Service reported. 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, in his own words, was injured in the ear from a bullet during the attack at a campaign event in Pennsylvania. "I was hit by a bullet that went through the upper part of my right ear," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
00:33 Shots fired at Trump: Secret Service leads ex-President off stageFormer US President Donald Trump was escorted off the stage by security personnel during a campaign event in Pennsylvania after shots were fired. In the images, Trump is seen with a bloody ear and raised fist.
- Given the escalating tensions in US politics leading up to the 2024 US Presidential Election, there have been whispers about potential candidates, with some Republicans hoping that Donald Trump will challenge Joe Biden again.
- In light of the domestic threats facing prominent political figures like Joe Biden and Donald Trump, there have been renewed calls for the Secret Service to enhance their protective measures, considering the history of political assassinations in the United States.
