Trump's Close Call Has the Near-Assassination Changed Him?

A Year After: Friends See a Changed Trump After Near-Assassination

A year has passed since the harrowing day in Butler, Pennsylvania, when former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. The incident, which saw a gunman open fire at a campaign rally, grazing Trump's ear and tragically killing one of his supporters, continues to cast a long shadow. While the Trump of today remains undeniably the same in many respects, those closest to him report subtle yet significant shifts in his demeanor and perspective.

Earlier this month, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds during the kickoff of the country’s 250th anniversary celebration, Trump’s reaction to distant sounds resembling fireworks served as a stark reminder. Speaking from behind bulletproof glass, he quipped, “Did I hear what I think I heard? Don’t worry, it’s only fireworks. I hope. Famous last words.” This moment underscored the ever-present awareness of his vulnerability.

The near-assassination dramatically altered the political landscape, triggering a series of events including:

• Trump’s dramatic, bandaged-ear arrival at the Republican National Convention.
• President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from his reelection bid.
• The subsequent elevation of Vice President Kamala Harris.

But beyond the political ramifications, the event seems to have had a personal impact on Trump.

According to close confidants, Trump exhibits a heightened sense of gratitude and attentiveness. Senator Lindsey Graham, a long-time friend, noted, “He’s still a rough and tumble guy… He hasn’t become a Zen Buddhist. But I think he is… more appreciative. He’s more attentive to his friends.” Graham pointed to a recent birthday message from Trump as evidence of this newfound thoughtfulness. “It’s just a miracle he’s not dead. He definitely was a man who believed he had a second lease on life.”

Interestingly, rather than shying away from the traumatic event, Trump has chosen to surround himself with reminders. His residences and offices feature artwork depicting the aftermath of the shooting, including a painting prominently displayed in the White House State Floor foyer and a bronze sculpture in the Oval Office. These serve as constant reminders of his brush with mortality.

Trump himself has acknowledged lingering physical effects. “I get that throbbing feeling every once in a while,” he admitted during a press conference, gesturing to his ear. “But you know what, that’s OK. This is a dangerous business. What I do is a dangerous business.”

Perhaps the most profound change lies in Trump's perception of divine intervention. Chief of Staff Susie Wiles believes the incident reinforced Trump's conviction that he was spared for a higher purpose. She explained that Trump now views his survival as a sign, saying "I would say I think he believes that he was saved. I do. And he would never — even if he thought it before, I don’t think he would have admitted it. And he will now." She even attributed Trump turning his head at just the right moment to look at a chart as divine intervention.

She also noted how his addresses "God bless America" now have more meaning and depth.

Roger Stone, another longtime ally, echoed this sentiment. “He told me directly that he believed he was spared by God for the purpose of restoring the nation to greatness, and that he believes deeply that he is protected now by the Lord,” Stone revealed.

Ralph Reed, chairman of the Faith and Freedom Coalition, concurs. “I think for people who know the president, it is commonly believed that it changed him. I mean, how could it not? Imagine if you were who he was and if you don’t turn your head at that instant,” he said. “He knew he was lucky to be alive.”

One year on, the attempted assassination remains a pivotal moment in Donald Trump's life and political career. While the outward persona may remain familiar, those closest to him suggest a deeper, more reflective individual has emerged, one who believes he has been granted a second chance to serve a higher calling. Only time will tell how this altered perspective will shape his future actions and impact the political landscape.

Tags: Donald Trump, Iowa, Assassination attempt, Campaign rally, Fireworks, 2024 election, Republican convention, US News, Political violence, Trump speech

Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-butler-anniversary-assassination-0ef1ccff5da47f795e6d5c3a47e7f9cf