News that shook America two days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee can’t be overlooked. The shocking event was an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The image of a visibly disturbed Trump, pumping his fist in the air as he’s whisked away by Secret Service, is something that will be etched in our memories for a long time.
On the evening of the event, Trump voiced his emotions via Truth Social. Composed and considerate, he expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement, and extended condolences to the bereaved family of a rally participant who was killed, and those who were gravely injured.
In his statement, Trump gave a chilling account of the occurrence. “I was hit by a bullet that tore through the upper part of my right ear. I immediately sensed something was wrong as I heard the buzzing sound of shots and felt the bullet tearing into my skin.” His final words were a heartfelt, “GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
A conversation with Trump on Sunday revealed that he now wishes more than ever to unite the country. He even decided to modify an originally stringent speech on Democrats to align with this new goal.
This whole episode takes us back to 1981 when a would-be assassin tried to take out President Reagan. Secret Service agent Jerry Parr once commented that being president is dangerous. But does it always have to be this way?
It’s time for us to reflect: how do we cope with this sense of dread? Former First Lady Melania Trump provided some guidance. She began by communicating her own shock and grief, then shifted focus to our shared humanity and our joint duty to supersede political differences.
Melania Trump asked for the country to “rise above the hate” and reminded us that “we all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends.”
Her dignified response and sense of responsibility deserve commendation. She’s in good company as many voices across the political spectrum have communicated a similar desire.
The incident has been described as possibly being “a redemptive political moment,” with calls for Trump to seize this opportunity to advocate for unity. There were also warnings for both parties to refrain from outlining the election stakes in such intense terms.
President Biden labeled the attack “sick,” and said, “There’s no place in America for this kind of violence.” He reiterated this message the next day, underscoring the necessity of unity.
In agreement, Trump posted a simple message on Truth Social: “UNITE AMERICA.” Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell labeled the shooting “a despicable attack on a peaceful rally,” emphasizing, “Violence has no place in our politics.”
These calls for unity are familiar, echoing sentiments often heard on my “Common Ground” podcast. But can we match these calls for unity with concrete actions?
As we step into political convention season, starting with the commencement of the Republican Convention on Monday, let’s heed Melania Trump’s call to “rise above the hate.” This might just be the jolt we needed. Let’s opt to re-establish civility, even as we engage in vigorous debates about our differences. After all, it’s what defines us as Americans.
Meanwhile, here’s Joe.
This guy said “battle box”
You can’t make this stuff up…#Biden #battlebox pic.twitter.com/mssHDVksVL
— The Stock Sale Flyer (@StockSaleFlyer) July 15, 2024
