SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, July 13, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — Utah leaders reacted with shock and condemnation to what’s being called an attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally Saturday.
Gunshots rang out and Trump fell to the ground onstage about 10 minutes into his speech.
An FBI spokesman said the former president and Republican presidential candidate was “safe” and being checked out at a hospital. The shooter was “neutralized,” CNN reported.
Utah’s congressional delegation responded to the shooting on social media.
“Someone just tried to kill President Trump,” Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, stated on X. “Pray for him. And for swift justice.”
“Relieved the former President is safe and doing well,” said Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah. “Outrageous and tragic that anyone would make such a heinous and evil act. Grateful for the quick response from Secret Service agents. This is a deeply sad day for America.”
“Anxiously awaiting details about what happened today concerning President Trump,” said Rep. John Curtis. “I’m grateful the former president is safe and hope no one in the crowd was injured. Thank you, Secret Service and all law-enforcement for all you do to keep us safe.”
“Let’s call this what it is: the attempted political assassination of the next President of the United States,” said Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah. “I ask the American people to join me in praying for President Trump and his family.”
“This attack against President Trump and his supporters is an assault on the American people and our democratic process,” said Rep. Blake Moore, R-Utah. “What happened in Pennsylvania is horrific. My thoughts are with President Trump and all those impacted by this senseless act of political violence.”
Republican Gov. Spencer Cox said the “attack on President Trump is sickening and horrifying.”
“Abby and I join all Americans in praying for him and hope justice is swift for anyone involved,” Cox stated.
“This is terrible,” added Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson. “I hope President Trump is okay and the shooter is brought to justice. It’s a sad day in America.”
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill, a Democrat, also condemned the action on X.
“Don’t care about your politics, likes or dislikes of positions,” Gill said. “Political violence is never ok. This is not who we are, ever.”
