DELAWARE, USA – In a swift and somber address from Delaware, President Joe Biden denounced the violence at former President Donald Trump’s campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night.
The rally in the city of Butler was abruptly halted when shots were fired, leaving one spectator dead and another seriously injured.
“There is no place in America for this kind of violence,” Biden stated emphatically. “It’s sick. It’s sick. It’s one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot condone this.”
Biden noted he attempted to contact Trump, who was with his doctors, and plans to speak with him soon.
Assuring the public of Trump’s well-being, Biden said, “It appeared Trump was doing well, and I will keep the news media informed.”
In a statement released prior to his on-camera remarks, Biden expressed relief over Trump’s safety.
“I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.”
Trump was swiftly escorted off the stage just minutes into his rally after shots were fired.
Photos and videos from the event showed Trump with blood on the side of his head and his ear.
Despite the chaos, Trump is expected to survive, according to senior law enforcement officials.
The Butler County district attorney’s office confirmed the death of a spectator and the critical condition of another.
The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was killed on the scene by Secret Service agents.
Leaders Respond to Rally Violence
Former President Barack Obama released a statement emphasizing the importance of political civility.
“There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don’t yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn’t seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.”
Former President George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush also condemned the attack.
“We are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.”
Similarly, former President Bill Clinton expressed sorrow over the incident, reinforcing the message that political violence has no place in America.
Shooter Identified
The FBI confirmed the identity of the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park. While a motive has yet to be established, state police Lt. Col. George Bivens indicated that biometric confirmations were in progress.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, including determining whether Crooks acted alone.
Pennsylvania voter records indicate Crooks was a registered Republican, though the timing of his registration remains unclear.
