As Trump supporters gathered on the sidewalk outside Trump Tower, police officers kept a close eye on the cars and entrances to the building amidst increased security along Fifth Avenue. The loyal fans of the former president proudly wore their bright red hats and waved American flags.
Several Republican politicians in New York publicly condemned the shooting that occurred on Saturday and the rhetoric from Democrats that they believe may have incited it.
Andrew Lanza, a member of the New York State Senate, expressed concern about the dangerous consequences of demonizing individuals. He stated that when someone is labeled as evil, there is a risk that some extremist may take matters into their own hands and attempt to eliminate what they perceive as evil from the world.
As the afternoon wore on, the reason behind the gunman’s actions still remained unclear. Although the situation was dire, there was no explicit evidence to suggest that the shooting had any political motivation. Nevertheless, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis was quick to point the finger at Democrats.
According to her, every possible method has been employed to restrain him, but he remains unstoppable. The left has deemed him as a perilous figure who must be halted by any means necessary. “Now, someone attempted to take his life,” she stated.
In a bid to calm speculation, President Biden called on Americans to exercise caution. However, Assemblyman Michael Tannousis was of the opinion that the matter was inconsequential.
“He attempted to assassinate President Trump. That’s the truth. Our purpose here is to denounce such actions and proclaim that violence is never the solution. Responding to violence with more violence will only perpetuate the problem. If you wish to bring about change and dislike the current trajectory of our nation, make your voice heard through the political process and exercise your right to vote,” he stated.
The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania as the individual involved in the shooting that resulted in the death of one spectator, as well as critically injuring two others and causing chaos at the event.
