Former President Donald Trump is expected to attend the Republican National Convention (RNC) just two days after surviving a gunman’s attempt to assassinate him during his final rally before the convention. Despite the shocking incident, the former president expressed gratitude to law enforcement and first responders for their quick actions in a joint statement with RNC chair Michael Whatley, co-chair Lara Trump, and Trump advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita.
Trump was shot in the ear on Saturday night during his speech at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. As shots were heard, he ducked down and touched his face before being quickly shielded by Secret Service members on the ground. Trump got up shortly after, raising his fist as he was escorted to a nearby hospital for a medical checkup.
Although it is unclear when Trump will be speaking at the RNC convention, which begins on Monday, he is expected to announce his vice presidential pick during the event. Over 50,000 delegates, media members, law enforcement officers, staff, and visitors are anticipated to attend the convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, running until Thursday.
Security measures were already in place for the RNC due to expected protests, with the Secret Service setting up a security perimeter around the event venue. However, it is unclear whether any further tightening of security protocols will occur as a response to the assassination attempt.
Some attendees at the convention have expressed concerns about their safety in light of the recent incident, and there could be revisions made to speeches given during the event as well. Despite the shocking attack on Trump, he remains committed to attending the convention and continuing his vision for a better America through his nomination as the Republican candidate for president.
