US Vice-candidate Vance criticizes media sharply and praises Trump
He went on, expressing great fear that "we have just lost a great president," as shots rang out at a campaign event on Saturday and Trump dove for cover. "And then he stands up a minute later, after they had shot at him - they had literally shot at him - and he lifts his fist in the air and says: 'Fight! Fight! Fight!'," Vance said.
Vance, who is criticized for promoting division and conspiracy theories, did not specify who he meant by "they." He quickly accused the Democrats after the shooting. The authorities have not named a motive for the shooter and there is no evidence of involvement by other people.
Trump survived the shooting at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday by a narrow margin. The former president was hit by a bullet near his ear. In addition to the apparent shooter, a bystander was also killed.
Vance's remarks were made before his scheduled Wednesday evening (local time) speech at the party convention. Trump had announced his vice presidential candidate on Monday. The 39-year-old senator from Ohio has gone from critic to loyal supporter of the former president.
Vance's criticisms of Democrats contrast sharply with his staunch support for former President Trump, despite media scrutiny of his divisive rhetoric. As a US visa candidate, Vance's association with Trump could potentially raise concerns. Some Republicans have expressed concern about the impact of the shooting incident on Trump's political future.
