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Former First Lady Melania Trump has ignited debate by questioning the official account of the July 13 assassination attempt on her husband, former President Donald Trump. In a provocative 30-second video posted to X (formerly Twitter) on September 10, Mrs. Trump promoted her upcoming memoir while casting doubt on law enforcement's actions surrounding the incident.
"The attempt to end my husband's life was a horrible, distressing experience," Mrs. Trump stated in the video. "Now the silence around it feels heavy." She then posed a pointed question: "Why didn't law enforcement officials arrest the shooter before the speech?"
The shooting occurred during a Trump campaign rally in Butler Township, Pennsylvania. Thomas Crooks, 20, opened fire from a nearby rooftop, injuring the former president's ear and killing one attendee before being fatally shot by Secret Service agents. Several others were wounded in the chaos.
Mrs. Trump's video concludes with the assertion, "There is definitely more to this story, and we need to uncover the truth," followed by an image of her book, "Melania," set for release in early October.
The former first lady's comments echo conspiracy theories circulating in some right-wing circles. Donald Trump himself has baselessly accused President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris of interfering with Secret Service staffing, hampering his protection. However, no evidence has emerged to support these claims or suggest a broader plot beyond the actions of the lone gunman.
Law enforcement agencies have faced intense scrutiny in the wake of the attack. At a House Homeland Security Committee hearing on July 23, Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris revealed that officers had identified Crooks as suspicious prior to the shooting, noting he was "milling about" and carrying a range finder.
The incident has led to significant fallout within the Secret Service. Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on July 23 following harsh criticism from lawmakers over the agency's handling of the event. Additionally, at least five Secret Service agents were placed on leave in late August in connection with the rally security failures.
As investigations continue, new details have emerged about Crooks' preparations and online activity leading up to the attack. However, FBI officials have yet to determine a clear motive for his actions.
Mrs. Trump's provocative video, released hours before her husband was set to debate Vice President Harris in Philadelphia, has reignited public interest in the incident. While promoting her memoir, priced at $40 for a standard copy and up to $250 for a collector's edition, the former first lady has thrust herself into the center of an ongoing national security debate.
