Alabama Leaders React To Trump Shooting

President Donald J. Trump survived an assassination attempt by a lone gunman Saturday afternoon, while speaking before a crowd of 15,000 in Pennsylvania.

Eight shots were allegedly fired from "an AR-style" weapon by a shooter positioned on a rooftop some 1 30 yards away. The shooter was killed by a Secret Service counter-sniper. At least one rally attendee was killed, with at least one more reported to have been in critical condition after the event.

President Trump posted the following on his Truth Social account Saturday evening:

"I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

The outpouring of support for President Trump from Alabama leaders was immediate and strong.

Rep. Barry Moore (AL-2) told the Gazette that "They tried to impeach him, they tried to have him jailed and now they are trying to kill him. I am relieved that President Trump is okay and will continue to pray for his safety. This man is a fearless leader, and will stop at nothing to save our nation!"

Robin Litaker, Republican nominee for Congress in AL-7 posted on social media "President Trump's commitment to our society has always been steadfast, and this incident highlights the personal cost he is willing to bear for the well-being and future of America. During this challenging time, we ask for your thoughts and prayers for the swift and full recovery of everyone involved and for the families who have lost loved ones."

Trump RNC Delegate Gerrick Wilkins responded to the Gazette's request for comment, saying "You can see the evil that's out there. We need President Trump now more than ever, and I'm thankful he's okay. Our thoughts and prayers for President Trump and the victims of this terrible act. I am more committed than ever to stand firmly behind him at the RNC next week."

Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-6) posted on X "Once again, the nation is witness to political extremism at its worst. The attempt today on President Trump's life is a stark and deadly reminder of how divided we are as a nation. I condemn all forms of political violence. Ann and I thank God that President Trump survived this assassination attempt and we are praying for healing and protection for him. We are also praying for the families of the victims who tragically lost their lives and for a full recovery of the others who were wounded."

AL-6 Congressional candidate Ken McFeeters said that, "I am thankful President Trump appears to be OK and I hope and pray I can vote for him in November."

Governor Kay Ivey also posted on X that "My thoughts and prayers are with President Donald Trump and his family. I ask Alabamians to join me in praying for his swift recovery."

Saturday evening, President Trump and the Republican National Committee issued a joint statement that the 2024 Republican convention would proceed as scheduled, despite the attempt on the President's life. The convention begins this Monday, July 15th and will run through Thursday, July 18th. President Trump is expected to be the Republican Party's nominee for President in 2024.