Thousands Gather in Butler, Pennsylvania, to Rally for Donald Trump Following July Attack
BUTLER, Pa. — Thousands of enthusiastic supporters flocked to Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, rallying for Donald Trump at the very location where an assassination attempt occurred in July.
Many attendees arrived before dawn for the event, titled a “tribute to the American spirit.” Trump resumed his speech, beginning with “As I was saying,” referencing his interrupted remarks during the previous rally when gunfire erupted, while gesturing toward an immigration chart he was analyzing at that time.
Tributes to Corey Comperatore, who sacrificed his life to shield family members during the July shooting, were prominently featured. A display honored his fireman’s jacket, adorned with flowers, while a live artist created a patriotic portrait of the former fire chief on stage. Comperatore’s sisters emotionally wiped away tears as their brother was commemorated.
Trump called for a moment of silence in Comperatore’s memory, accompanied by classical singer Christopher Macchio performing “Ave Maria,” coinciding with the moment the shots were fired on July 13.
Elon Musk, the billionaire tech executive, delivered his first address at a Trump rally, energizing the crowd with enthusiasm as he took the stage.
An increased security presence marked the event, with personnel in camouflage stationed on rooftops armed with heavy-duty weapons. The building associated with the July gunfire was shielded from view by tractor-trailers, with a substantial grassy perimeter and a fence displaying Trump’s image from the prior rally.
