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Former President Donald Trump on Monday attributed the recent assassination attempt against him to a polarized political climate and rhetoric from Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden. According to ABC, Trump suggested that the alleged gunman, Ryan Wesley Routh, acted on what he perceived as inflammatory remarks from the Democrats.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Trump claimed, "He believed the rhetoric of Biden and Harris, and he acted on it," referring to Routh. Trump criticized Biden and Harris, stating, "Their rhetoric is causing me to be shot at, when I am the one who is going to save the country, and they are the ones that are destroying the country."
The FBI is investigating the incident as an attempted assassination, although Routh's motive remains unclear. The investigation includes exploring whether Routh was motivated by Trump's stance on Ukraine. Agents fired at Routh after spotting his rifle near Trump International Golf Club, but it remains uncertain if Routh fired any shots.
Routh appeared in federal court in West Palm Beach on Monday, facing two firearm-related charges.
Trump's comments also criticized Democrats for what he described as "false statements" and "a new level of hatred" in politics. He warned that such rhetoric could escalate violence.
Harris' campaign and the White House declined to comment on Trump's accusations. Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, called for reduced political rhetoric, arguing that recent assassination attempts on Trump indicate a need for the left to moderate their language.
This marks a shift from Trump's earlier call for political unity following a previous assassination attempt earlier this summer. At that time, Trump had urged for unity and restraint.
President Biden, in response, emphasized the need for increased support for the Secret Service. "The [Secret] Service needs more help, and Congress should respond to their needs," Biden stated.
[Information sourced from ABC]
