On Sunday, Sept. 15, former President Donald Trump’s campaign confirmed that he is safe after gunshots were reported near his location. The incident occurred around 2 PM EST while Trump was playing golf at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The golf course was placed on lockdown immediately after the shots were heard.
Trump Campaign’s Statement
Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung addressed the situation in a statement: “President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time.” The specifics of the incident are still unclear, but law enforcement is investigating whether the former president was the intended target. Donald Trump Jr., Trump's eldest son, reported that an AK-47 rifle was recovered at the scene by authorities, raising concerns that the shots may have been aimed at the former president.
Previous Assassination Attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania
This is not the first time Trump has faced a potential assassination threat. On July 13, 2024, during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Secret Service agents thwarted an assassination attempt by fatally shooting the assailant, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Crooks. The attempt had significant political ramifications, with Trump’s odds of winning the 2024 Presidential election skyrocketing on prediction markets.
The Impact on Trump’s Campaign
Following the Butler incident, Trump-themed cryptocurrency MAGA (TRUMP) spiked by 52%, and Bitcoin also surged, reaching $64,671 by July 15. Political analyst Austin Campbell remarked at the time that “historically, attempted assassinations have led to an uptick in support for candidates.”
Current Polymarket Odds
Trump’s odds in prediction markets have fluctuated in recent months. After the failed assassination attempt, he saw a significant lead on Polymarket. However, his advantage narrowed following a debate with Vice President Kamala Harris, during which his odds of winning the election dropped by 3%. This put Trump and Harris in a close race as the 2024 election draws nearer.
As the November elections approach, the margin between the competing political campaigns continues to tighten, despite the political boost Trump experienced following the Butler assassination attempt. Law enforcement is still investigating the circumstances surrounding the Sept. 15 gunfire near Trump, but the former president remains unharmed.
