Obama Calls for Peace Amid Assassination Plot

Former President Barack Obama appealed to Americans to “reject the idea that violence exists in our democracy” following a thwarted assassination plot against President Donald Trump and his cabinet.

In a statement posted on X on Sunday, Obama urged for calm.

“While the motives behind the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner last night are still unclear, it’s essential for everyone to denounce violence in our democracy,” he stated.

He further emphasized, “This serves as a solemn reminder of the bravery and dedication that U.S. Secret Service personnel demonstrate daily. I am thankful to them, and I am relieved that those injured are safe.”

The suspect, 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allen, allegedly aimed to attack the president and several Cabinet members during the dinner Saturday night. Allen, who resides in Torrance, California, reportedly journeyed across the country by train to the Washington Hilton, armed with a shotgun, handgun, and various knives.

In his manifesto, he reportedly wrote, “Administrative personnel (excluding Mr. Kash Patel): They are targets and prioritized from highest to lowest,” adding, “I feel angry when I think of everything this government has done.”

Authorities apprehended Cole Thomas Allen as he attempted to breach a security checkpoint above the event venue. U.S. Secret Service agents fired two shots during the incident before making the arrest. One Secret Service agent was shot but was protected by his bulletproof vest. Fortunately, there were no additional injuries.

Following the attack, President Trump—who has faced two prior assassination attempts—urged Americans to resolve their conflicts peacefully.

He remarked, “I ask all Americans to recommit in their hearts to peacefully resolving our differences. We must work out our differences. What I mean is that there were Republicans, Democrats, independents, conservatives, liberals, and progressives. Those words might be interchangeable, but then again, maybe they’re not. Everyone in that room, a large crowd, a record-setting group, demonstrated a tremendous amount of love and unity. I was quite impressed.”