Salena Zito on Trump's Reaction to Assassination Attempt and 'Butler' Book

The Assassination Attempt in Butler

• 🎯 Reporter Salena Zito recounts the moments during the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, detailing her new book, "Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America's Heartland."
• ⚡ Zito shares Trump's immediate private reaction to being shot: "Get up. You're not afraid. Get up. Get up."
• 🇺🇸 Trump explained his decision to stand up and say "Fight! Fight! Fight!" by stating he was symbolic and had an obligation to show the country's strength and resolve, not weakness.

Trump's Immediate Post-Attempt Actions

• 📞 The morning after the attempt, Trump's first calls were to check on Zito and her daughter's well-being, a detail that deeply impressed her.
• 🗣️ Before saying "Fight! Fight! Fight!", Trump was heard saying "USA" twice while still on the ground, emphasizing his connection to the country.
• 🧠 Trump's actions and demeanor after the attempt are attributed to a deep-seated belief that he was divinely protected, stating, "God saved him."

The Symbolism of Butler and Trump's Connection

• 📍 Butler, Pennsylvania, is described as a symbol of everyday America, representing a mix of suburban, industrial, and rural demographics, making it a crucial location for Trump to connect with voters.
• 🤝 Trump's visits to places like Butler and East Palestine are highlighted as key moments that make people feel seen and have positively impacted his political standing.
• 💖 The crowd's reaction after the shooting is described as a "miracle," with people remaining calm, supporting each other, and showing profound unity in a crisis.

Historical Parallels and Personal Reflections

• 🏛️ The book reveals that Donald Trump is not the first president to face an assassination attempt in Butler; George Washington also experienced a near-fatal incident there.
• 🌟 The assassination attempt is noted to have humbled and strengthened Trump, rather than making him egotistical, a reaction Zito found bizarre and unique.
• 💬 Zito discusses Trump's pragmatic approach to his campaign and his belief that he is divinely tasked with saving the country, which fuels his rapid pace and unwavering resolve.

Insights from the Book 'Butler'

• 🔍 Zito delves into the shooter's background, noting he grew up near her home and detailing his visits to a shooting range on holidays.
• 😂 The book also includes humorous anecdotes, such as Trump's insistence on Zito using hairspray for her hair.
• 📊 The book promises to reveal untold stories from the election cycle, including insights into the perceived ineptitude of other candidates like Harris and Walt.