NBC News’ Jake Traylor describes scene at yesterday’s rally

NBC News’ Jake Traylor describes the scene at yesterday’s rally in Butler, Pa., where a shooter attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Traylor was on the scene with other journalists, waiting for a potential announcement from Trump when they heard gunshots. Traylor saw Trump go down quickly, and the press pen followed suit, covering each other in the chaos. After a few moments, Traylor was able to see Trump with a bleeding ear. The scene was described as “harrowing” by Traylor.

The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of domestic terrorism, with 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as the suspect. The FBI believes Crooks acted alone and there are no public safety concerns at the moment. The gun used in the assassination attempt was believed to be purchased by Crooks’ father, and the family is cooperating with the investigation. The FBI has already received over 2,600 tips related to the incident.

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy spoke with Trump after the shooting and reported that the former president is doing well. CNBC anchor Joe Kernen also spoke with Trump, noting that he was in good spirits despite a minor issue with his ear.

Republicans like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have weighed in, with Greene blaming Democrats for the assassination attempt and DeSantis criticizing “DC bureaucratic failures” as contributing to the incident.

Attendees at the rally, such as Tina Moore and Rachel Wenrich, shared their experiences of hearing gunshots and the resulting fear and sadness. Wenrich, who decided against attending the rally due to the heat, expressed frustration with both major candidates on the ballot and called for more responsive governance to prevent future tragedies like this.