Biden Condemns Attempted Assassination of Trump as 'Contrary to Everything We Stand For'
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden on Sunday condemned the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump as “contrary to everything we stand for as a nation” and announced an independent review of security measures surrounding the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
In a statement from the Roosevelt Room, Biden, joined by Vice President Kamala Harris, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and Attorney General Merrick Garland, decried the violence that occurred at Trump’s rally in Burke, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.
“There is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter,” Biden said. “An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation.”
The president emphasized the importance of maintaining American values even amidst political disagreements. “We’ll debate, and we’ll disagree. That’s not going to change. But we’re going to not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans,” he asserted.
Biden confirmed that he has ordered an independent review of the events at the rally and assured that the FBI’s investigation would be “thorough and swift.” He also announced that he would address the nation from the Oval Office at 8 p.m. ET for a more detailed discussion on the incident.
The shooting took place as Trump was on stage at the rally, where a gunman opened fire, resulting in the death of one attendee, Corey Comperatore, and injuring several others, including Trump. Trump confirmed he was unharmed but revealed that a bullet grazed his ear.
Following the attack, Biden returned to the White House from his residence in Rehoboth, Delaware, and received an updated briefing from top homeland security and law enforcement officials in the White House Situation Room.
In his address, Biden expressed relief that Trump was safe and extended his condolences to Comperatore’s family. He also urged Americans not to jump to conclusions about the shooter’s motives as the FBI continues its investigation.
Biden noted that as a former president and current Republican nominee, Trump already receives a “heightened level of security.” He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the Secret Service provides Trump and his team with the necessary resources for their safety.
“This is a sickening act,” Biden said. “But as a nation, we must stand together and reaffirm our commitment to our shared values.”
For further updates on the situation, follow ongoing coverage and official statements from the White House.
