Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
The attempted assassination of Donald Trump on July 13 sent shockwaves across the nation. This heinous act has been universally condemned by political leaders, both presidential candidates, and major media outlets. Despite deep divisions, there’s a unanimous agreement that differences should be resolved at the ballot box, not through violence.
Biden, Trump, and leaders from all sectors of society have emphasized that such violence does not represent American values. Donald Trump urged Americans to “UNITE AMERICA” on Sunday, and President Biden declared in his address: “There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Period.”
As we strive to turn this aspiration into reality, we must confront an uncomfortable truth: assassination attempts are not abnormal in American presidential history. Over the years, violence has repeatedly infiltrated our political landscape.
A Grim History of Presidential Assassination Attempts
Out of the 45 presidents, 12 have faced serious assassination attempts, with four succumbing to their injuries. This grim statistic underscores the persistent threat of political violence in the United States. Here’s a brief history:
- Andrew Jackson (1835): Richard Lawrence’s pistols misfired.
- Abraham Lincoln (1864, 1865): Survived an initial attempt but was later killed by John Wilkes Booth.
- James Garfield (1881): Shot by Charles J. Guiteau.
- William McKinley (1901): Shot by Leon Czolgosz.
- Theodore Roosevelt (1912): Shot by John Schrank but continued his speech before seeking medical help.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933): Survived an attempt by Guiseppe Zangara.
- Harry Truman (1950): Survived an attack by Oscar Collazo and Griselio Torresola.
- John F. Kennedy (1963): Assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald.
- Gerald Ford (1975): Survived two attempts by Lynette Fromme and Sara Jane Moore.
- Ronald Reagan (1981): Survived after being shot by John Hinckley Jr.
- George W. Bush (2005): Escaped an attempt by Vladimir Arutyunian.
- Donald Trump (2024): Recently targeted by Thomas Matthew Crooks.
Additionally, the assassinations of key figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy have profoundly shaped presidential actions and national politics. These events have left lasting marks on American history and governance.
What Lies Ahead
No one can predict what the coming months hold. However, we must recognize that the attempted assassination of Trump may not be the last violent incident before the election. With the volatile political climate, another deranged individual or avenger could strike again.
Enhancing Security and Preparedness
The heightened risks demand better performance from our government. Extraordinary risks require extraordinary vigilance and preventive actions. The failure of the Secret Service last week is evident. Enhanced surveillance, such as the use of drones, could have detected the shooter before he got into position. Director Kimberly Cheatle and others responsible for Trump’s security should be replaced. The most competent counter-terrorist experts from the Defense Department and intelligence community should immediately review and improve current security measures.
Campaign Adjustments
Given the possibility of further assassination attempts, both campaigns need to reassess and adjust their plans to limit risks. This includes choosing more defensible venues, restricting direct access to candidates, and implementing rigorous security measures. While these changes may be inconvenient, they are necessary to ensure the safety of both candidates and their supporters.
Toning Down the Rhetoric
Both Biden and Trump have called for lowering the heat and toning down campaign rhetoric. It’s essential to acknowledge that inflammatory rhetoric can incite violence. Both campaigns have portrayed the other as an existential threat to the nation. This framing can justify extreme actions in the minds of some supporters. For the sake of the country, both candidates should agree on boundaries to constrain their campaigns and promote a more civil discourse.
The history of assassination attempts on U.S. presidents is a stark reminder of the violence that can accompany political divisions. As we move closer to the election, it is crucial to enhance security measures, adjust campaign strategies, and tone down divisive rhetoric. For the sake of the country, let us hope that both Biden and Trump can commit to these changes and ensure a safer and more democratic process.
