Sean Hannity reveals what Donald Trump said to him following second assassination attempt
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA: Fox News host Sean Hannity spoke with Donald Trump following his second assassination attempt on Sunday, September 15.
The alleged gunman, Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, was arrested after authorities say he pointed an AK-47 through a chain-link fence at the former president, who was playing golf at the Trump International Golf Club West Palm Beach, and was "intent on filming" the attack using a GoPro mounted on the fence.
According to Hannity, after ensuring that everyone present on the course was safe, the GOP nominee expressed disappointment that he couldn’t finish his game.
"Ugh, I really wanted to finish the hole! I was even and I had a birdie putt," reportedly said Trump.
"It was on the fifth, it was on the fifth hole, which shows a lot of, I think, guts and gumption and very Trumpian," noted the Fox News host, as per New York Post.
Ryan Wesley Routh frequently criticized Donald Trump on social media
Ryan Wesley Routh fled in an SUV when a Secret Service agent opened fire after spotting the muzzle of his rifle protruding from the tree line at the perimeter of the course.
However, a witness took photos of his vehicle and its license plate, which helped authorities track down the suspect and take him into custody.
The swift response by law enforcement, including the Secret Service and local authorities, thwarted what could have been a devastating attack.
The man who tried to assassinate Trump today is being reported as Democrat operative Ryan Wesley Routh. pic.twitter.com/h7WwVDdFFi
— World life (@seautocure) September 15, 2024
Martin County Sheriff William Snyder described that the suspect had a "calm" demeanor while he was being apprehended.
The 58-year-old had a "Biden-Harris" bumper sticker displayed on the back of a pickup truck at his residence in Kaaawa, Hawaii. Routh regularly posted political content online, often criticizing Trump, and has solely donated to Democratic candidates and causes since 2019.
Donald Trump praises Secret Service and law enforcement following second assassination attempt
Sunday's incident comes approximately two months after Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet while speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
"I would like to thank everyone for your concern and well wishes - It was certainly an interesting day!" posted the former president on Truth Social late Sunday night to thank his supporters and law enforcement.
He added, "Most importantly, I want to thank the US Secret Service, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw and his Office of brave and dedicated Patriots, and, all of Law Enforcement, for the incredible job done today at Trump International in keeping me, as the 45th President of the United States, and the Republican Nominee in the upcoming Presidential Election, SAFE."
"THE JOB DONE WAS ABSOLUTELY OUTSTANDING. I AM VERY PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!" concluded Trump.
Vice President Kamala Harris condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to prevent further "political violence" and commending the Secret Service for their vigilance.
"I am deeply disturbed by the possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today. As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more violence," said the Democratic presidential nominee.