President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed that the 2024 assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania – which left one person dead and two others wounded – was part of a “Democratic Plot” aimed at removing him from the election. Trump said the investigation lacked critical information when he took office and that new documents now reveal the truth.
Trump’s Accusations and Calls for Accountability
In a post on his platform, Trump asked, “Why wasn’t it seen long ago?” and declared that “this was all a Democrat Plot, to get me out of the Election, that failed.” He added that former FBI Director Christopher Wray should “pay a price” for how the investigation was handled.
FBI and DOJ Responses
FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Oversight Committee that the agency found no connections between the suspect, Thomas Matthew Crooks, and any other individuals. Patel said, “We found no evidence that that individual was literally even speaking to any other human being other than his parents, who he resided with.” Attorney General Todd Blanche also said the “new information” referenced by the president was produced by the FBI in response to the Senate inquiry, but offered no evidence of a broader conspiracy.
Details of the Butler Shooting
The Secret Service confirmed that Trump was struck in the ear by a bullet fired from Crooks’ rifle during a campaign rally on July 13, 2024. Crooks, who used the alias “Bob Dole,” was later cremated, with the service reportedly funded by an anonymous donor. Fox News and The New York Post reported reviewing federal documents related to the incident, but did not find proof of a coordinated plot.
Trump’s Position on the Investigation
President Trump emphasized that much of the investigation’s information was missing when he assumed office and that recent documents have shed new light on the shooter’s background. He urged the Department of Justice to hold those responsible accountable, stating, “The Department of Justice doesn’t punish,” but implying that the agency should act.
What Comes Next
The Senate Oversight Committee will continue to examine the FBI’s handling of the Butler shooting. Trump’s administration has pledged to pursue any evidence of wrongdoing and to ensure that the truth about the alleged plot is fully disclosed.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
