Donald Trump was declared safe by the U.S. Secret Service on Saturday after multiple gunshots were heard at a rally in Pennsylvania. The incident occurred shortly after Trump began his speech, causing visible concern as he grimaced and raised his right hand.
“The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former president is safe,” a spokesperson announced on X, referring to the situation as an “incident.” An active investigation is ongoing, with further details to be released as available.
The shots rang out at the outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, leading bodyguards to surround Trump and duck him below the podium. Armed officers took positions at the front of the stage. Trump, raising his fist to the crowd, was escorted to a vehicle by the Secret Service. Despite a CNN report indicating Trump was injured, details on his condition were scarce. Footage showed blood on his right ear and the right side of his face.
A campaign spokesperson assured the public that Trump was fine and being checked at a local medical facility. The rally site was subsequently cleared, with chairs overturned and yellow police tape marking the area. Helicopters and armed officers surveyed the scene from above and nearby rooftops.
President Joe Biden received an initial briefing on the incident, the White House confirmed.
As Trump and Biden continue their tight election rematch, this event adds to the heightened tensions. Recent polls, including Reuters/Ipsos, show a close contest between the two. Biden, facing internal party challenges following a recent debate performance, continues to navigate the complexities of his campaign.
Trump, who held office from 2017-2021, has maintained strong support within the Republican Party despite the January 6 Capitol attack. His early success in the nomination race has solidified his position as the party’s frontrunner.
