President Donald Trump gave an official statement to the American people on Sunday — one year to the day after gunman Thomas Crooks opened fire on a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania — saying as he has before that he believes God spared his life that day for a reason.
In the days that followed the shooting, a number of details came to light — from the fact that Trump had changed up his speech and turned his head at the last second to the possibility that Crooks, perhaps believing he was about to be caught, had rushed his shots — showing just how easily the situation could have been much, much worse.
Trump later said that while he did not consider himself to be a particularly religious person, he believed after that day that God had saved him — a thought he revisited in his statement on the one-year anniversary of the event.
One year ago today, at 6:11 pm—eight minutes after taking the stage on the grounds of Butler Farms to address thousands of Americans gathered at a campaign rally—rifle fire broke out, and an assassin’s bullet came within a quarter inch of ending my life and silencing our movement to restore American greatness. Yet, by the hand of providence and the grace of Almighty God, my life was spared. As we commemorate one year since the harrowing events of July 13, 2024, we reaffirm that the American spirit has and will always triumph over forces of evil and destruction.
Those who carry scars from that July evening defended our Republic during one of our Nation’s darkest hours—running to the injured amid chaos and uncertainty to provide comfort and lifesaving care. Doctors and first responders rushed to help the wounded, rallygoers guided their fellow citizens to safety, and patriots raised their fists in the air in an outpouring of support and national pride. These men and women arrived at the rally grounds as ordinary Americans, but left as heroes. They represent the very best of our Nation, and we are forever indebted for their kindness and compassion.
Trump also took a moment to remember former fire chief Corey Comperatore, who died that day shielding members of his family from the gunfire.
However, one name stands above all for selfless service and ultimate sacrifice on that fateful day. The world will never forget the tragic loss of Corey Comperatore, a firefighter, veteran, and devoted husband and father. When gunfire erupted, Corey did not hesitate to protect his wife and two daughters. He died a hero, and we are eternally grateful for his inspiring love, valor, and faithfulness.
It remains my firm conviction that God alone saved me that day for a righteous purpose: to restore our beloved Republic to greatness and to rescue our Nation from those who seek its ruin. One year after the attempt on my life in Butler, our country is in the midst of a new Golden Age. History will remember the would-be assassin for his cowardice and failure, but the magnificent legacy of the heroes of July 13, 2024, will forever be etched upon the heart of our Nation. Today, we pay tribute to their spirit of love, unity, and resilience—and we proclaim with one voice the epic battle cry that has reverberated all across the world: “Fight, fight, fight!”
The White House also shared a video of Comperatore’s widow, Helen, and his two daughters as they reflected on their loss and how their lives changed that day.
One year later, our hearts remain with the Comperatore family. Corey’s courage and love for his family reflect the very best of America. President Trump remains committed to honoring Corey’s legacy and securing justice in his name. pic.twitter.com/NysOfoFgdV
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 13, 2025
