Butler, Pennsylvania, a quaint town with a population of just over 13,000, is buzzing as it prepares for a major event. Sheriff Mike Slupe estimates that 50,000 to 60,000 people will attend former President Donald Trump’s campaign rally at Butler Farm Show today.
This rally is significant, marking Trump’s return to the site of a shocking assassination attempt that occurred just two months ago.
The American Glass Research (AGR) building, the location from which shots were fired on July 13 by Thomas Matthew Crooks, is under tight security. The incident left Trump with a minor ear injury, injured two attendees, and tragically claimed the life of former fire chief Corey Comperatore.
Security measures have ramped up significantly, with armed officers in camouflage stationed on rooftops, according to Associated Press reports. The AGR building has been obscured by tractor trailers and a large grassy area to ensure safety.
The Secret Service is on high alert following a bipartisan Senate report that criticized them for several missteps during the July incident, including inadequate coverage of the AGR building and poor coordination with local law enforcement.
As the clock ticks on, supporters continue to pour in, many donning Trump campaign apparel. Voting advocacy groups are also on-site, with Scott Presler, founder of Early Vote Action, reporting a dozen new voter registrations since morning.
High-profile guests expected at the rally include tech mogul Elon Musk, who announced his attendance on social media, along with Trump’s sons, Eric and Donald Jr., and running mate JD Vance. Members of the Comperatore family, including Helen Comperatore and her daughters, will be special guests, although it remains unconfirmed whether former First Lady Melania Trump will attend.
Trump’s campaign has framed the event as a “tribute to the American spirit,” declaring, “In America, we do not let monsters like that evil assassin have the last word.” Pennsylvania is a key battleground state as the elections approach.
Current polls from FiveThirtyEight and The New York Times indicate a close contest for Pennsylvania’s 19 Electoral College votes, with Vice President Kamala Harris leading by slim margins of 0.6% and 1%, respectively.
This story is developing and will be updated as new information comes in.