On the one-year anniversary of the attempted assassination in Butler, Pennsylvania, President Donald Trump issued a solemn and powerful statement to the American people — reflecting on the bullet that nearly ended his life and the moments of heroism that defined that day.
“At 6:11 p.m., eight minutes after taking the stage… an assassin’s bullet came within a quarter inch of ending my life and silencing our movement,” Trump said. “Yet, by the hand of providence and the grace of Almighty God, my life was spared.”
Trump described the chaos that unfolded as gunfire rang out — but emphasized the acts of bravery that followed: citizens rushing to help the wounded, doctors and first responders springing into action, and rallygoers refusing to cower in fear. “These men and women arrived as ordinary Americans, but left as heroes,” he said. “They represent the very best of our Nation.”
The president reserved special praise for Corey Comperatore, the firefighter and father who died shielding his family from gunfire. “He died a hero,” Trump said. “We are eternally grateful for his inspiring love, valor, and faithfulness.”
Trump said he believed divine intervention saved him that day — not just for his own sake, but to finish the mission of restoring the country. “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.”
He closed with a reminder of the resolve that carried him through that moment and the movement it reignited across the country: “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. 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 tribute video featuring Corey Comperatore’s widow, Helen, and his two daughters, who spoke about their loss and the strength they’ve found in the months since.
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
The anniversary marks not just a turning point in Trump’s life, but a renewed sense of unity and purpose among his supporters — one that continues to shape the political landscape of the country.