Former President Donald Trump made his first public appearance on the evening on July 15 at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, days after surviving an assassination attempt. Hours before, he announced Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) as his running mate.
Former President Trump secured a legal win Monday morning when a federal judge dismissed the classified documents case against him, ruling that special counsel Jack Smith was not lawfully appointed.
In the aftermath of the assassination attempt, both President Joe Biden and former President Trump have called for unity. President Biden urged Americans to “lower the temperature” on political discourse.
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Teamster President: His Union ‘Not Beholden’ to Democrats
MILWAUKEE—While he stopped short of endorsing former President Donald Trump, the general president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Sean O’Brien, praised the nominee’s toughness and openness to different ideas while excoriating corporate elites and D.C. insiders.
“Elites have no party. Elites have no nation,” Mr. O’Brien said.
The labor leader praised some Republican politicians, particularly Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), for taking steps he characterized as pro-worker.
He also described the Business Roundtable and Chamber of Commerce as “unions of big business.”
Mr. O’Brien spoke about the controversy his appearance engendered among both union activists and some anti-union conservatives.
“I don’t care about being criticized,” he said.
Grandfather and Retiree Speaks After Trump
MILWAUKEE—After former President Trump spoke, the stage was taken by one of the night’s “everyday Americans”: Mark Laws, a grandfather and retiree from western Michigan.
“I’m just a regular guy. But to my kids and my grandkids who call me ‘Peepaw,’ I’m the guy,” he said. He said rising prices has made life on a fixed income significantly harder.
“Remember, ballots win elections, so that’s the best way to do it,” he said.
Trump Shows Up, Draws Cheers
MILWAUKEE—The former president appeared on the jumbotron at the Fiserv Forum shortly before 9 p.m. CT, sparking cheers from attendees.
A white bandage was visible on his ear, evidence of his injury from an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania just two days ago.
Moments after he appeared, musician Lee Greenwood took to the stage and spoke out on behalf of former President Trump. As the band vamped over the instrumental opening to “Proud to Be an American,” the former commander-in-chief walked out on stage, pumping his fist and waving.
His son Donald Trump, Jr. gave him a thumbs up from the family box. As Mr. Greenwood played his signature song, the former president swayed to the music, smiled, waved, and mouthed the words, “Thank you.”
At one point, he looked over at his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), and said something inaudible. Chants of “USA!” and “Fight” echoed through the arena, followed by, “We love Trump.”
Noem: At ‘Most Perilous Moment,’ Trump Instinctively Responded
MILWAUKEE—Long before he survived an assassination attempt on July 13, “we already knew that President Donald Trump was a fighter,” said South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, calling him “the toughest man that I have ever met.”
He stood strong after so many other attacks, “They impeached him, they tried to bankrupt him and they unjustly prosecuted him. But even in the most perilous moment this week, his instinct was to stand and to fight,” Ms. Noem said.
The crowd roared its approval as she continued, “Donald J. Trump is our man in the arena. He will never stop fighting for us. He will never stop and now he is bringing all of us together.”
“There are moments in our history, often after great hardship and tragedy, when true leaders unite our country,” she said.
She urged people to harness this moment and “win the hearts and minds of every single American” with “truth and wisdom.”
“You can’t win people over by arguing with them,” she said.
National Right to Life Group Praises Trump’s VP Choice
MILWAUKEE—The nation’s “oldest and largest pro-life organization” approves of former President Donald Trump’s VP pick, its leader says, calling Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) “an excellent choice.”
National Right to Life posted a statement July 15 in response to the former president’s announcement.
Carol Tobias, president of the group, said Mr. Vance “is committed to promoting the right to life and protecting both women and their preborn children.” She notes that he opposes President Joe Biden’s “push for a sweeping federal law allowing unlimited abortion for any reason until birth.”
Ms.Tobias said former President Trump and Mr. Vance join “the majority of Americans” in the belief that “tax dollars should not be used to pay for elective abortions.”
“Senator Vance brings a strong pro-life background to the Republican ticket, which contrasts with the extreme pro-abortion position of Joe Biden and [Vice President] Kamala Harris,” said Ms. Tobias.
At RNC, Conservative Notables, Attendees Weigh in on Vance
MILWAUKEE—After Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) was announced as former President Trump’s running mate, convention attendees shared their thoughts with The Epoch Times.
MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, who was chatting and taking photographs with a crowd of fans, said “I’m in 100 percent.”
The entrepreneur said his two favorites had been Mr. Vance and Dr. Ben Carson, who led the Department of Housing and Urban Development during former President Trump’s first term.
“There’s not a phoniness about him [Mr. Vance],” Mr. Lindell said. He said he would have also been OK with Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), another name on the VP shortlist.
Republican voter registration activist Scott Presler told The Epoch Times that Mr. Vance will enable the ticket to “win the Midwest,” including the battleground states of Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
More specifically, he predicts blue-collar white voters will be moved into the GOP column by Mr. Vance, the author of “Hillbilly Elegy” and a native of southern Ohio.
Others at the convention also shared their thoughts.
Jim Walsh, a delegate from Connecticut, told The Epoch Times he was hoping former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley would be selected.
“Ben Carson was my first choice,” said Kevin Sheahen, an alternate delegate from Pennsylvania. Yet he praised the Ohioan, saying he appreciated how his views had moved in a more conservative direction over the years.
“I think it’s fantastic,” Jeff Santopietro, also from Connecticut, said of Mr. Vance’s nomination. He told The Epoch Times he believes his party has “a deep, deep bench” when it comes to choosing running mates.
A delegate from Puerto Rico, Keren L. Riquelme Cabrera, told The Epoch Times she wanted Mr. Rubio to be the nominee. She wants Mr. Vance to pay close attention to the issue of Puerto Rican statehood.
“The downsides are, we’re going to lose a great senator, and the governor of Ohio gets to choose who to replace him with,” Californian Leo Zacky told The Epoch Times.
Some take issue with Mr. Vance’s criticism of continued financial support for Ukraine, branding the lawmaker an isolationist—often a pejorative term in American politics.
But, Mr. Zacky had a different take: “I like isolationism here in America.”
Kennedy Says He Met with Trump About ‘National Unity’
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. confirmed in a July 15 post on X that he met with former President Donald Trump earlier that morning.
The meeting was held prior to the former president’s announcement selecting Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) as his running mate, prompting speculation on social media that Mr. Kennedy might be asked to join the Republican ticket as vice president.
“Lots of rumors going around about my meeting this morning with President Trump,” Mr. Kennedy said. “Our main topic was national unity, and I hope to meet with Democratic leaders about that as well.
“No, I am not dropping out of the race,” Mr. Kennedy added.
Lawmakers Announce Investigations Into Trump Assassination Attempt
The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives will conduct bipartisan investigations into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.
The former president was grazed by a bullet fired by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13. One rally attendee was killed, and two others were seriously injured.
Lawmakers have called for an investigation into how the shooter managed to gain access to the roof of a nearby building and fire at the former president, despite the presence of the U.S. Secret Service. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) announced on July 15 that the committee will hear testimony from Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle on July 22.
“The United States Secret Service has a no-fail mission, yet it failed on Saturday when a madman attempted to assassinate President Trump, killed an innocent victim, and harmed others,” Mr. Comer said in a statement announcing the hearing. “Questions remain about how a rooftop within proximity to President Trump was left unsecure.”
Rep. Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), also a member of the Oversight Committee, wants questions about the assassination attempt answered as well.
“Congressman Gosar will be very interested in understanding how law enforcement failed to provide a secure perimeter, why law enforcement ignored multiple warnings that an assassin was positioned on a nearby roof and whether law enforcement ignored President Trump’s requests for beefed up security resources,” a spokesperson for Mr. Gosar told The Epoch Times in a written statement.
Biden Campaign: VP Harris Ready to Debate Vance
Vice President Kamala Harris has accepted an opportunity to face Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance in a CBS-hosted debate.
The campaign shared the news shortly after Mr. Vance was named former President Donald Trump’s running mate at the Republican National Convention on July 15, and added that she is eager to debate him.
“Vice President Harris reached out to Senator Vance and left a message to congratulate him on his selection, welcome him to the race, and express her hope that the two can meet in the vice presidential debate proposed by CBS News,” a campaign official told White House reporters.
“The VP will take it to JD Vance,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) told reporters on a campaign call. “I’m looking forward to this debate.”
What Happens to Vance’s Senate Seat if He Becomes VP?
Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) could be sworn in as the next vice president come January. If so, his open seat in the Senate could create some tension among his fellow Ohio Republicans.
Ohio’s Republican Gov. Mike DeWine would appoint an interim senator to fill Mr. Vance’s Senate seat should the Trump–Vance ticket win the White House in November.
Republican Bernie Moreno is currently running to unseat Ohio’s Democrat Sen. Sherrod Brown. If Mr. Moreno loses that race, he might be a leading candidate to replace Mr. Vance. But if he wins, other recent Republican candidates for Senate, such as Ohio’s Secretary of State Frank LaRose and state Sen. Matt Dolan, could find themselves back in contention.
Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy indicated he might be interested in a Senate run. An Ohio native, Mr. Ramaswamy was rumored at one point to be on the former president’s shortlist for vice president.
“If asked to serve, I would strongly consider the position and would discuss with President Trump which path makes the most sense for our country,” Mr. Ramaswamy told Politico.
Vance Becomes Official VP Nominee
MILWAUKEE—Former President Donald Trump’s vice presidential pick, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), entered the Republican National Convention floor, giving hugs and handshakes to well-wishers, and signing autographs on Trump placards.
As a band played, “Rebuild America First,” Mr. Vance made his way through the crowd, smiling nonstop. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine was also in attendance.
Ohio’s Bernie Moreno, a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate, called Mr. Vance “a patriot who loves America,” and moved that Mr. Vance be approved by “acclimation,” an informal agreement without calling the roll of all states.
By a voice vote of a thundering chorus of “ayes” and a few barely audible votes in opposition, convention participants chose Mr. Vance as former President Donald Trump’s running mate.
Iowa Attorney General Breanna Bird announced that Mr. Vance had received “the overwhelming support of this convention to be the next vice president of the United States!”
Mr. Vance beamed in response.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) formally declared the Trump–Vance ticket at 4:07 p.m. CT, as the crowd roared.
DHS Secretary Mayorkas Confirms RFK Jr. Will Get Secret Service Protection
Alejandro Mayorkas, the Homeland Security (DHS) secretary, said on July 15 that Secret Service protection will be extended to independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
“In light of this weekend’s events, the president has directed me to work with the Secret Service to provide protection to Robert Kennedy Jr.,” Mr. Mayorkas said.
The announcement was made at a White House news briefing with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
Mr. Mayorkas said security protection will be increased for 2024 presidential candidates and for this week’s Republican National Convention (RNC) after a 20-year-old man tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump on July 13.
While Mr. Kennedy, whose father and uncle were both assassinated less than five years apart, had asked DHS to provide him with Secret Service protection five times before this weekend’s events, he said the requests were denied.
In a statement posted to X minutes after the news briefing ended, Mr. Kennedy thanked President Joe Biden for extending him Secret Service protection.
“Thank you to President Biden for granting me Secret Service protection,” he said. “And I am so grateful to Gavin deBecker & Associates for keeping me safe for the last 15 months of my Presidential campaign.”
Former Contenders React to Trump’s VP Pick
As reactions poured in over former President Donald Trump’s selection of Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) as his running mate, other contenders for the role weighed in.
Praising the former president in an X post as America’s “strongest leader” in modern history, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum said Mr. Vance’s small-town roots and military service made him “a powerful voice for the America First agenda.”
Meanwhile, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, also an Ohioan, said he was “so proud of” his friend and college classmate for joining the Republican presidential ticket.
“He’ll be an outstanding Vice President and I look forward to everything ahead for him and for our country,” he wrote on X.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) also chimed in with a brief message of support, writing: “#TrumpVance2024!!!”
Strong Cheers for Mark Robinson Casting North Carolina Ballots
MILWAUKEE—Mark Robinson, North Carolina’s lieutenant governor and the GOP’s gubernatorial candidate in that state, drew an especially strong and enthusiastic reaction from the crowd in Milwaukee as he cast the state’s 74 delegates for former President Donald Trump—a possible sign of where the loyalties of delegates and insiders in today’s GOP lie.
The pastor and politician described his state as “first in flight” and called former President Trump: “America’s Braveheart.”
Biden, Mayorkas Stand by Secret Service Director
In the first White House press briefing since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas expressed his confidence in the Secret Service.
“I have 100 percent confidence in the United States Secret Service, and what you saw on stage on Saturday, with respect to individuals putting their own lives at risk for the protection of another, is exactly what the American public should see every single day,” Mr. Mayorkas said.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that President Joe Biden retains confidence in Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle. Ms. Jean-Pierre said Ms. Cheatle is “working hard to examine what happened and to ensure protectees have needed security” and is committed to fully cooperating with the independent review.
Regarding the independent review, Mr. Mayorkas reiterated that he is committed to looking outside his department and the federal government to ensure no question of the investigation’s independence can be raised.
Biden Reacts to Vance VP Pick
President Joe Biden has responded to former President Donald Trump’s choice for running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance. (R-Ohio).
“Here’s the deal about J.D. Vance. He talks a big game about working people. But now, he and Trump want to raise taxes on middle-class families while pushing more tax cuts for the rich,” posted President Biden on X, with a campaign donation link.
The Biden campaign released a longer statement criticizing the pick, saying Mr. Vance would enable what it described as former President Trump’s “extreme MAGA agenda.”
The campaign alleged Mr. Vance would support an abortion ban, tax cuts for the wealthy, and other right-wing agenda items.
On abortion, Mr. Vance has said he is opposed to banning the abortion pill mifepristone. And he is opposed to a national abortion ban.
Trump Secures Republican Presidential Nomination
MILWAUKEE—It’s official: Former President Donald Trump is the Republican Party’s 2024 presidential nominee.
The announcement was made almost simultaneously with former President Trump’s announcement of his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio).
The GOP confirmed its nomination of the former president as the state of Florida added its delegates to the official count.
Florida Puts Trump Over the Top
MILWAUKEE—Eric Trump put his father, former President Donald J. Trump, over the top in the delegate count by casting all 125 of the state’s delegates to his father.
He called former President Trump “the greatest president who ever lived.”
After he spoke, the song “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang played. Additional votes from other states and territories, beginning with Puerto Rico, came in afterwards.
State By State, the Delegates Come In for Trump
MILWAUKEE—Led by Vicki Drummond, the secretary of the convention for the RNC in Milwaukee, party leaders from across the county slowly but surely delivered their delegates to former President Trump, drawing raucous cheers from a crowd ready to re-nominate the past commander-in-chief.
Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance’s selection as vice president was noted by Ohio Republican nominee for Senate Bernie Moreno as that state allocated its delegates.
Corey Lewandowski said he was proud to cast New Hampshire’s 22 votes for “my good friend,” the former president whose 2016 campaign he managed.
A big cheer went up for California and its mother lode of 169 delegates, the nation’s highest total.
“We stand for the flag and kneel for God,” said Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), before casting all 50 of the state’s delegates to former President Trump.
“New York will always love Donald J. Trump!” said Rep. Elise Stefanik before casting the state’s 91 delegates to the former Manhattan real estate developer.
Trump Nomination Process Begins
Jeff Kaufmann, the chair of the Iowa Republican Party, led the nomination of former President Donald J. Trump as the Republican candidate for president.
Michael J. McDonald, chair of the Nevada GOP, seconded the motion.
Mr. McDonald praised the party’s standard-bearer and survivor of a recent assassination attempt, saying the former president has withstood what he described as “weaponized lawfare.”
“I ask all Americans to join me in taking back our nation,” he said.
Trump Picks J.D. Vance as Running Mate
After much anticipation, former President Donald Trump has announced that Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) is his running mate.
Former President Trump announced the pick on his social media site, Truth Social.
“After lengthy deliberation and thought, and considering the tremendous talents of many others, I have decided that the person best suited to assume the position of Vice President of the United States is Senator J.D. Vance of the Great State of Ohio,” he posted.
“J.D. has had a very successful business career in Technology and Finance, and now, during the Campaign, will be strongly focused on the people he fought so brilliantly for, the American Workers and Farmers in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Minnesota, and far beyond.”
Mr. Vance, who has been in the Senate since January 2023, previously was a venture capitalist and is the author of “Hillbilly Elegy,” which is a book about him growing up impoverished in Appalachia.
Mr. Vance was once critical of former President Trump, but he has since done a 180 and is now one of his staunchest allies.
GOP Quickly Approves Trump-Influenced Platform at Convention
Republicans approved their new platform on the first day of the national convention in Milwaukee, giving the seal of approval to a document that differs in significant ways from its predecessors.
The approval by voice vote came early during the first formal session on the afternoon of July 15. The ayes were louder than nays, but nays were not absent.
Pete Hoekstra, former ambassador to the Netherlands and leader of the Michigan Republican Party, moved to advance the platform soon after the rules package for the convention moved forward.
“Every American can read our platform and know what we believe,” said Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), the chair of the platform committee.
RFK, Jr. Reacts to Trump’s Call for Secret Service Protection
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. took to X a few hours after former President Donald Trump called for him to finally get Secret Service protection.
“It is a hopeful sign for our country when a political opponent calls for one’s protection,” said the independent. “Maybe our country can unite after all.”
Republican National Convention Officially Kicks Off
MILWAUKEE—GOP Chairman Michael Whatley launched the 2024 Republican National Convention at 1 p.m. CT by welcoming attendees. The audience responded with a loud cheer. But that quickly turned to a moment of silence as he asked the crowd to reflect on the “terrible events” that occurred on July 13, with the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump and the death of a rallygoer.
A prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the singing of the National Anthem followed. That concluded with loud cheers and chants of “USA! USA!”
Mr. Whatley led the convention through opening procedural matters, including the reading of the call for the convention, the adoption of convention rules, and the approval of the report of the credentials committee, certifying the roll of the convention.
Mr. Whately nominated Henry McMaster, governor of South Carolina, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, and Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky to chair the committee. They were elected by voice vote.
RNC Releases List of Monday’s Speakers
The Republican National Convention (RNC) released its list of 22 speakers for Monday’s program. The lineup includes politicians, business and union leaders, and famous public figures.
Some of the notable political speakers scheduled for Monday include Sen. Tim Scott (R-N.C.), Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas), and Rep. John James (R-Mich.).
On Monday, the RNC will also feature speeches from Goya Foods CEO Bob Unanue, former Yammer CEO David Sacks, Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk, model and hip hop artist Amber Rose, and International Brotherhood of Teamsters President Sean O’Brien.
Secret Service Director to Testify Before House Panel Next Week
U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle will testify before the House Oversight Committee on July 22, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) confirmed in a social media post on July 15.
Mr. Johnson said lawmakers have questions for Ms. Cheatle, including how a shooter managed to lock former President Donald Trump in his sights and why drones were not used to secure the Pennsylvania rally.
Mr. Johnson noted that he had asked Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas the same question, but, “He had no answer.”
“The American people deserve answers,” Mr. Johnson said, adding that Ms. Cheatle will “testify next Monday to answer these important questions.”
Obama Agrees With Biden Statement, Denounces Political Violence
Former President Barack Obama responded to a video posted to X by President Joe Biden late on July 14.
“We must stand for an America not of extremism and fury, but of decency and grace,” the president said in the video.
In his response on July 15, former President Obama said his former vice president is “right.”
“There is no place in America for this kind of violence. As a country, we may not agree on everything, but we should be able to agree on that,” he said.
Sen. Ron Johnson Calls for Unity
MILWAUKEE—Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) emphasized both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump’s calls for unity in the wake of the assassination attempt of the Republican presumptive nominee.
“The greatest threat to this nation now, even though we’re dealing with our debt and deficit, is the fact that we are a horribly divided nation,” Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.) told The Epoch Times at the opening day of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
He praised former President Trump for altering his convention speech, saying that “one of his major goals now is to unify and heal this nation.”
The lawmaker described President Biden’s efforts to lower the temperature as “a good thing.”
“Let’s see genuine movement toward finding that common ground,” Mr. Johnson said, suggesting that the areas of meaningful disagreement may be less significant than some think.
“We agree on most things,” he said.
Pentagon: 1,700 U.S. Troops Assisting with Security at RNC
Around 1,700 U.S. troops will assist with security at the RNC, announced Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh on July 15. Most of them are from the National Guard.
She said that the “personnel are comprised mainly from the Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota National Guard, and will be providing capabilities such as civil support … and security, and remain postured to respond to other emergent domestic requirements to protect life, property, and to maintain peace, order, and public safety.”
Security at the RNC has been beefed up following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, on July 13.
Security at the RNC
MILWAUKEE—Hordes of law enforcement personnel are keeping a close watch in about a half-square mile area surrounding the Republican National Convention site.
Officials enhanced security following the July 13 attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Tall black fences form a perimeter. To reach entrances, attendees navigate a circuitous route to the Fiserv Forum, where events are being held through July 18.
A police boat is patrolling the Milwaukee River. Dozens of bicycle patrol officers are pedaling along surrounding streets. Numerous police vehicles are blocking roadways and parking areas.
To enter the secure area, police required motorists to pop open their trunks and hoods for inspection as two police dogs worked around each car.
Officers channeled pedestrians to a security tent. There, an officer scanned each entrant’s personalized credential. Police inspected the contents of all bags. Reporters were required to activate phones, laptops, and other electronics before entering.
The event is open solely to Republican delegates, party officials, their invited guests, and news reporters.
Trump to Announce Running Mate
Former President Donald Trump told Fox News anchor Bret Baier he will announce his running mate on Monday.
Among the reported contenders are Sens. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.
The vice presidential nominee will accept the nod and give a speech at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on July 17. Former President Trump will accept the presidential nomination the following day.
Trump Praises Secret Service, Pennsylvania Crowd After Assassination Attempt
Former President Donald Trump praised the U.S. Secret Service for its response to his July 13 assassination attempt, saying in a new interview that its agents came in like “linebackers” to protect him.
“They took him out with one shot right between the eyes,” former President Trump told the New York Post in an exclusive interview, referring to a Secret Service agent who shot the assailant after he fired shots at Saturday’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
“They did a fantastic job. It’s surreal for all of us.”
Later in the interview, the former president praised the rally crowd for staying calm during the incident.
“A lot of places, especially soccer games, you hear a single shot, everybody runs. Here there were many shots and they stayed,” the former president said. “I love them. They are such great people.”
Trump: Imperative That RFK Jr. Gets Secret Service Protection
Former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on July 15 to demand that independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. gets secret service protection.
“In light of what is going on in the world today, I believe it is imperative that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. receive Secret Service protection—immediately,” the former president said. “Given the history of the Kennedy Family, this is the obvious right thing to do!”
Nearly $4 Million Raised for Trump Rally Shooting Victims
A fundraiser to support the victims and families of those killed and wounded during a failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has raised nearly $4 million—four times its initial goal.
Firefighter Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, Pennsylvania, was killed at the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Two other men were seriously injured: 57-year-old David Dutch of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and 74-year-old James Copenhaver of Moon Township, Pennsylvania. Both were reported to be in stable condition on July 14.
The fundraiser, organized by the Trump campaign’s National Finance Director Meredith O’Rourke, set a goal of $1 million in donations for the victims and their families.
As of 11:30 a.m. ET on July 15, the campaign had raised more than $3.98 million.
“President Donald Trump has authorized this account as a place for donations to the supporters and families wounded or killed in today’s brutal and horrific assassination attempt,” the webpage for the fundraiser states.
“All donations will be directed to these proud Americans as they grieve and recover. May God bless and unite our nation.”
Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and his wife, Ann, were among the campaign’s 53,000 donors, contributing $50,000 to the cause.
‘I am Thrilled’: Trump Reacts to Case Dismissal
Shortly after U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the government’s classified documents case against former President Donald Trump on July 15, ruling that special counsel Jack Smith was unlawfully appointed, the former president spoke to Fox News’s Bret Baier.
“I am thrilled that a judge had the courage and wisdom to do this,” he said, according to Mr. Baier, adding that the ruling makes the Republican National Convention more positive.
Former President Trump said it was “a big, big decision,” and pointed to Supreme Court Justice Thomas’ statements on this issue. Mr. Baier said the former president seemed to indicate that the ruling will affect other cases.
“This has big, big implications, not just for this case, but for other cases,” said the former president, according to Mr. Baier.
Shortly after this call, the former president took to Truth Social, stating that the case dismissal “should be just the first step” in dismissing all other cases, specifically referencing the cases in Washington, D.C., New York, and Georgia.
Federal Judge Dismisses Trump Documents Case
U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed former President Donald Trump’s classified documents case on July 15, finding that special counsel Jack Smith’s appointment violated the Appointments Clause.
“The Superseding Indictment is DISMISSED because Special Counsel Smith’s appointment violates the Appointments Clause of the United States Constitution,” the order reads.
The 93-page opinion and order was issued after days of oral arguments over the special counsel’s appointment and the statutory authority the Justice Department argued Attorney General Merrick Garland used to appoint Mr. Smith.
The dismissal of the indictment also dismisses the cases of codefendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, who were indicted alongside their employer former President Trump. Prosecutors are expected to appeal the order.
DHS Secretary Mayorkas: ‘Direct Line of Sight … Should Not Occur’
“A direct line of sight like that to the former president should not occur,” Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told ABC, on July 15, in regards to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, two days ago.
“That is precisely why President Biden directed that an independent review of the incident occur.”
The secretary stressed the importance of an investigation being undertaken “by an independent body outside of the Department of Homeland Security,” in order for the American public and the government to have “full confidence” in the integrity of the investigation, the conclusions, and recommendations made.
“We intend to be transparent,” Mr. Mayorkas said.
The secretary said the investigation will be conducted in “close coordination with the FBI.”
He also addressed a report claiming that the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the Secret Service, rebuffed multiple requests to increase former President Trump’s security detail.
“We had enhanced security for the former president beginning at least in June,” Mr. Mayorkas said. “We have not received any requests for additional security measures that were rebuffed. That assertion is unequivocally false.”
Mr. Mayorkas praised the work of the Secret Service agents at the rally, and conveyed confidence in the security measures in place for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week.
Trump Rewrites RNC Speech
Former president and presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump rewrote his speech for the Republican National Convention (RNC) following the July 13 assassination attempt against him.
He told The Washington Examiner that his speech will be about unity as opposed to hitting President Joe Biden on his policies.
“The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger,” he said. “Honestly, it’s going to be a whole different speech now.”
“It is a chance to bring the country together. I was given that chance,” he said.
Former President Trump is scheduled to address the RNC on July 18, when he will be nominated as the party’s presidential candidate. He is expected to name his running mate before then.
Trump Says Slight Turn of Head Saved His Life During Assassination Attempt
A slight turn of his head meant the difference between life and death, former President Donald Trump said in a Monday interview that was published just 36 hours after he survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania.
“The most incredible thing was that I happened to not only turn but to turn at the exact right time and in just the right amount,” former President Trump told reporters Sunday while on his private jet as he flew to Milwaukee ahead of the Republican National Convention.
He added that if he only made a “half-turn” of his head, the bullet would “[hit] the back of the brain,” adding that “the other way goes right through [the skull].”
“And because the sign was high, I’m looking up. The chances of my making a perfect turn are probably one-tenth of one percent, so I’m not supposed to be here,” the former president said.
Local Officer Confronted Trump Shooter on Roof Before Shots, Sheriff Says
A municipal police officer had encountered the gunman on the rooftop before he fired at former President Donald Trump at his Pennsylvania campaign rally but was unable to stop him in time, the Butler County sheriff said.
Butler County Sheriff Michael T. Slupe told CBS Pittsburgh on Sunday that Butler Township officers had initiated a search after receiving information of a “suspicious person” on a roof near the rally.
The gunman had been spotted by bystanders on the roof of a building outside the rally perimeter for Secret Service, and the area was being guarded by local law enforcement. As the officer tried to climb onto the roof to inspect it, the shooter who was already lying on the roof turned and aimed his gun at him, forcing the officer to withdraw back to ground level for cover.
“All I know is the officer had both hands up on the roof to get up onto the roof, [but] never made it because the shooter had turned towards the officer. And rightfully and smart-fully, the officer let go,” Mr. Slupe said.
RNC Opens
A resolute Republican Party will convene its national convention on July 15, less than 48 hours after an assassination attempt against presumptive presidential nominee Donald J. Trump.
Amid uncertainty about the motivation for the attack and escalating political tension in the country, party leaders and others have also called for calm as the party nominates former President Trump as its candidate for the nation’s highest office.
More than 2,400 Republican delegates, thousands of invited guests, and hundreds of journalists will attend the four-day convention. In all, some 50,000 people are expected in Milwaukee.
Audrey Gibson-Cicchino of the U.S. Secret Service said on July 14 that the convention already has the highest security designation the federal government issues and that she is confident adequate provisions are in place. “We’re not anticipating any changes to our operational security plan for this event.”
However, multiple law enforcement officers from various agencies posted in the downtown area on July 14 told The Epoch Times that security arrangements were evolving based on changes made by the Secret Service in the wake of the July 13 shooting.
Groups of up to 10 officers were posted at various locations around and within the secure perimeter of Fiserv Forum, the convention site. Squads of five to six officers patrolled the area on bicycles.
Officers from various municipalities are providing security for the event, including those from the city and county of Milwaukee. State police officers from other states, including Indiana and New Jersey, are also on duty. Members of the Transportation Security Administration man pedestrian screening checkpoints around the arena.
Security at Trump campaign offices in Washington, D.C., and West Palm Beach, Florida, has been enhanced in the wake of the event, according to Mr. LaCivita and Ms. Wiles.
RNC Plans Unchanged
The former president survived the attack at a campaign rally in Bradford, Pennsylvania on July 13, suffering a gunshot wound to his right ear.
Before he was escorted from the platform by a cadre of Secret Service agents, former President Trump, blood streaked across his face, paused to pump his fist to the crowd and appeared to voice the words, “Fight! Fight! Fight!”
Former President Trump was treated and released from a medical facility. Two people were killed, including the attacker, and two were seriously injured.
The next day the former president repeated his intention both to continue his political struggle and to appear at the convention where he will be formally nominated on the final day of the event, July 18.
“In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin,” former President Trump wrote on social media.
Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles, senior members of the Trump campaign staff, issued a memo to campaign staffers on July 13.
“In moments of tragedy and horror, we must be resolute in our mission to reelect President Trump,” Mr. LaCivita and Ms. Wiles wrote. “The RNC Convention will continue as planned in Milwaukee, where we will nominate our president to the brave and fearless nominee of our Party.”
Tamping Down Rhetoric
At the same time, members of the Trump campaign and others have cautioned against allowing speculation and political rhetoric to escalate tension in what has become the most contentious election cycle in recent memory.
Mr. LaCivita and Ms. Wiles likewise urged campaign staffers to avoid fueling tensions further.
“We also urge you to recognize the political polarization in this heated election,” they wrote. “Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today. We condemn all forms of violence and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media.”
President Joe Biden also called for calm discourse.
“We’ll debate, and we’ll disagree. That’s not—that’s not going to change. But it’s going to—we’re going to not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans.” President Biden said in a statement on July 14.
He later addressed the nation from the Oval Office, saying, “Disagreement is inevitable in American democracy. It’s human nature. But politics must never be a literal battlefield. We stand for an America not of extremism and fury, but of decency and grace.”
Political figures from both parties roundly condemned the attack on the former president.
“There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy,” former President Barack Obama said in a statement
Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, who challenged former President Trump in the primaries, wrote on social media, “This should horrify every freedom loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized.”
From The Epoch Times