A Year After Trump’s Assassination Attempt, Republicans Push for Resolution
A year following the foiled assassination of President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, House Republicans are advocating for a resolution that condemns political violence and pays tribute to the victims of July 13, 2024.
Introduced on Friday by Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and August Pfluger (R-TX), the chairman of the Republican Research Committee, the resolution firmly condemns “multiple attempts” on Trump’s life and urges Americans to come together against violent rhetoric aimed at public officials.
Kelly, who represents Butler and was present at the rally during the assassination attempt, is joined by Pfluger, who oversees the resolution’s formal introduction as RSC Chair and serves on the Homeland Security Committee.
In a joint statement, Kelly and Pfluger emphasized the importance of opposing violence against leaders. They noted the harmful and polarizing language that has affected political discussions in recent years. Kelly reflected on the events from a year ago, recalling the heroism of a first responder who rushed to protect fellow citizens.
The resolution also pays tribute to Corey Comperatore, a volunteer firefighter and Army veteran who was killed while defending his family, as well as rally attendees David Dutch and James Copenharbor, who sustained serious injuries in the attack. It expresses appreciation for law enforcement, first responders, and healthcare workers, acknowledging the vital role of the U.S. Secret Service in safeguarding elected officials and constitutional values.
Besides Butler, the resolution mentions another assassination attempt on Trump on September 15, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida, as well as threats against Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, and Minnesota Sen. John Hoffman. It warns that ongoing violence and divisive rhetoric pose risks to democratic processes and the safety of public servants.
The resolution has garnered support from numerous House Republicans, including Eli Crane (R-AZ), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Mike Bost (R-IL), and Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA). It has been forwarded to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee for review.
