ROME, Italy — The Vatican issued a strong condemnation on Saturday’s assassination attempt against former U.S. President Donald Trump, describing the violent act as a “wound” to democracy. In a July 14 statement released by the Holy See Press Office, it expressed that such politically motivated violence not only harms individuals but also damages the very core of democratic principles.
The Vatican’s official stance on this incident was made clear, stating that the assassination attempt “wounds people and democracy, causing suffering and death.” The Holy See further emphasized its unity with the prayers offered by U.S. bishops for the nation, its victims, and peace within the United States. The hope is that such acts of violence would never prevail in society.
The incident occurred when Donald Trump, who has been mentioned as a potential Republican candidate for the presidency, was injured by gunfire at a Saturday evening rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. After being shot in his right ear, Trump was quickly rushed offstage by the U.S. Secret Service agents protecting him. Tragically, one individual attending the event lost their life due to the attack, while two others sustained critical injuries.
The FBI has identified the person responsible for this heinous act as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The authorities are currently seeking any information that might help them in their investigation of the assassination attempt on Trump’s life.
In a written statement, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, expressed his solidarity with other bishops in condemning political violence and praying for the well-being of President Trump and those affected by the incident. He further urged people to join him in praying for an end to political violence, which he believes is not a viable solution to resolving political disagreements.
Finally, Broglio invoked Mary, the Mother of God and Patroness of the Americas, as a source of hope and inspiration during these difficult times, urging all people of goodwill to pray for peace in the United States.