California Republicans were energized on Sunday after learning that former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt. At a Milwaukee museum, just before the national convention began, delegates expressed heightened enthusiasm.
Annie Marszal, a Sacramento gas station owner, said, “I feel a shift from excited to super-excited,” noting that Trump looked like a warrior after the incident.
Many attendees attributed the shooting to Democratic and liberal rhetoric. The attack on Saturday resulted in the deaths of a firefighter and the gunman, while Trump, who was grazed, is reported to be fine.
Tom Montgomery, a San Rafael campaign treasurer, said the event made everyone more determined to win. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, who is a potential vice-presidential pick for Trump, praised the former president, calling him “iconic” after the incident.
During a rally in Butler, Pa., Trump was hit by gunfire and fell to the ground before being whisked away by Secret Service agents. Burgum reflected on the close call, saying they were “one millimeter away from chaos” and expressing relief that everyone could smile despite the scare.
The shooting sparked discussions about Democrats and liberals. Richard Hugues, an Upland insurance broker, claimed that much of the hatred comes from the Democratic Party, which he connected to its history of slavery. Shawn Steel, a Republican National Committee member, shared a list of liberals who had previously made controversial remarks about Trump, including Madonna and Snoop Dogg. However, Snoop Dogg has since expressed respect for Trump after a presidential pardon.
The most discussed comment among Republicans was a private remark allegedly made by President Biden, suggesting it was time to target Trump. Biden has since condemned the attack.
Despite the excitement and controversy, Sayrs Morris, chairwoman of the Imperial County Republican Party, noted, “It’s something that happened and we’ll move past it,” while emphasizing the positive atmosphere of the event.