One year later, President Trump opens up about the moment that almost changed America forever.
In a gripping new interview with Fox News Channel’s Lara Trump, President Donald J. Trump spoke for the first time in depth about the shocking 2024 assassination attempt that nearly ended his life at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.
“It was unforgettable,” Trump said, recounting how a bullet missed his head by less than an inch. “I got hit. No question. But I got down fast — and that probably saved my life.”
The harrowing event unfolded on July 13, 2024, when Thomas Matthew Crooks, a radicalized gunman, climbed a rooftop and fired at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Chaos erupted as multiple shots rang out — eight in total, according to Trump.
But within seconds, the threat was neutralized by a brave Secret Service counter-sniper, known only as “David.” The agent took a long-range shot that saved not just Trump, but countless lives in the crowd below.
“He got him perfectly — in less than four seconds,” Trump said. “It was divine timing and incredible skill.”
Security Failures Admitted — But Trump Shows Grace
While the Secret Service has disciplined six officials for serious failures surrounding the shooting, Trump took a calm but firm tone in addressing the lapse.
“They should’ve had someone in that building. That was a mistake,” he said. “They didn’t coordinate with local police like they should have. But I’ve been satisfied with the bigger picture.”
Despite the near-fatal outcome, President Trump praised the agency’s capabilities overall. “I have great confidence in these people. I know them. They’re talented. But they had a bad day — and I think they know it.”
The identities of the six suspended agents remain undisclosed. None were part of the protective team that shielded Trump on stage as he stood up, blood running down his face, and famously shouted: “Fight! Fight! Fight!”
New Leadership and Unanswered Questions
In the days following the shooting, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned, and Trump appointed Sean Curran, a trusted agent who led his protective detail, as her replacement.
Despite multiple ongoing investigations — including by federal agencies and Congress — several key questions remain unanswered. The attack also claimed the life of Corey Comperatore, a local fire chief and Trump supporter, who was killed shielding others. Two other rallygoers were wounded.
“It Was 100% Divine Intervention”
The White House Chief of Staff, Susie Wiles, described the moment to New York Post columnist Miranda Devine on the Pod Force One podcast, saying she had no doubt that a higher power intervened.
“You think the worst. But when he stood up… I thought, ‘My God.’ He’s alive. That moment changed everything.”
Watch the Full Interview
President Trump’s emotional and inspiring account of the attack will air on My View with Lara Trump this Saturday at 9 p.m. ET on Fox News Channel. Don’t miss this powerful and patriotic moment of reflection from America’s 45th and 47th President.
