WEST PALM BEACH, United States (AFP) — An investigation is underway following an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, who is currently locked in a tight race with Vice President Kamala Harris for the White House. The incident occurred on Sunday, just seven weeks before Election Day, adding to the already charged atmosphere of the campaign.
Ryan Wesley Routh, a 58-year-old man, has been arrested in connection with the event. Authorities allege that Routh, armed with an assault-style rifle, positioned himself at the edge of a golf course in West Palm Beach where Trump was playing. The Secret Service, responsible for Trump’s security, quickly intervened after spotting Routh, resulting in him abandoning his weapon. It remains unclear whether Routh fired any shots before the confrontation ended.
Trump, who narrowly escaped injury from a bullet during a recent rally in Pennsylvania, was unharmed in this latest incident. The acting head of the Secret Service was scheduled to visit the scene and meet with Trump to address the security breach.
At the White House, outgoing President Joe Biden expressed relief that Trump was safe, but emphasized the need for increased support for the Secret Service. “Thank God the president is OK,” Biden said, adding, “The Secret Service needs more help, and I think Congress should respond to their needs.”
The Secret Service has faced criticism following a previous shooting incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a Trump supporter was killed. The sniper, acting alone, was shot dead by return fire. Despite having a significant security detail, Trump’s protection is less extensive than that of a sitting president, which contributed to the security lapse that allowed Routh to get close to Trump.
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of Palm Beach County defended the Secret Service’s actions, stating that the agency responded appropriately given the circumstances. Routh, known for his extensive criminal record and pro-Ukrainian stance, had traveled to Ukraine and claimed to support the fight against Russia. However, there is no evidence he participated in combat.
The attempt on Trump’s life comes amid escalating threats and political violence as the election approaches. The campaign has been marked by rising tensions, including recent incidents in Springfield, Ohio, where schools and public institutions have been shut down due to threats linked to conspiracy theories propagated by Trump and his allies.
Concerns are also mounting about a potential refusal by Trump to concede if he loses to Harris, reminiscent of the violence on January 6, 2021, when his supporters stormed Congress.
In the wake of the attempted attack, Trump has used the incident to bolster his campaign fundraising efforts, posting on social media with rallying cries for donations. His campaign has also been marked by controversy, including his recent outburst against pop star Taylor Swift, who endorsed Harris following the recent debate.
The 2024 presidential race remains intensely competitive, with the latest developments likely to influence public opinion as the election draws nearer.
