Former President Donald Trump reassured supporters of his safety on Sunday following a shooting incident at his West Palm Beach golf club, vowing to continue his campaign undeterred.
“There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!” Trump declared in a statement released shortly after the incident. The former president, who is the presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 presidential election, was golfing at Trump National Golf Club when multiple shots were fired nearby.
Piers Morgan reposted the statement from Trump’s campaign on X:
The U.S. Secret Service confirmed they are investigating a “protective incident” that occurred around 2 p.m. involving the former president. In cooperation with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, they assured the public that Trump is “safe.” A spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office reported no injuries.
Trump’s campaign communications director, Steven Cheung, echoed these assurances in a statement to Newsweek: “President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity.”
Details surrounding the shooting remain unclear, with conflicting reports emerging. CNN, citing sources familiar with the matter, reported that officials believe the shots were intended for Trump and fired at the golf club. However, the New York Post, quoting law enforcement sources, stated that two individuals exchanged gunfire outside the course, targeting each other rather than the former president.
In his statement, Trump struck a defiant tone, declaring, “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!” He also expressed gratitude to his supporters, emphasizing themes of unity and his campaign slogan: “Make America Great Again.”
Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles on September 13, 2024 in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Trump released a statement following shots near his golf club in Florida. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
The incident comes less than three months after a shocking assassination attempt on Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. On July 13, the former president was struck by a bullet that grazed his right ear, resulting in the death of the 20-year-old assailant at the hands of a Secret Service counter-sniper.
Sunday’s events have once again thrust security concerns into the spotlight of the 2024 presidential race. The White House reported that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominees, have been briefed on the situation and expressed relief at Trump’s safety.
As investigations continue, questions are likely to arise regarding the effectiveness of security measures protecting high-profile political figures. The Secret Service, still operating under Acting Director Ronald L. Rowe, Jr. following the resignation of former Director Kimberly Cheatle in the wake of the July assassination attempt, faces renewed scrutiny.
Trump had returned to Florida this weekend after a series of campaign events on the West Coast.
Despite the unsettling nature of the event, Trump’s message to supporters remained unwavering: “I will always love you for supporting me. Unity. Peace. Make America Great Again. May God bless you.”
