Trump accused of hearing things after reacting to ‘popping’ sound at Georgia rally

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump drew attention during a midterm rally in Georgia on Saturday, October 24, after pausing his speech to say he had heard a “popping” sound. The moment reminded some viewers of the 2024 assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, while others questioned the remark because they said the sound could not be heard in rally clips.

The incident was one of several moments from Trump’s recent public appearances that drew online scrutiny, including his struggle to pronounce the word “Bible” and a series of speech gaffes at other campaign events.

Donald Trump recalls Butler assassination attempt after hearing a ‘popping’ sound

Trump was speaking about China when he suddenly paused and addressed the audience about the sound.

“Did you hear that sound? I didn't like the, I didn't like the sound. Heard a little pop,” he said, before referring to his reaction when he hears such noises.

“You know, when I hear a pop, I say, what was that little sucker? I just heard a pop. We okay? Yes. Don't worry about it. Whatever it is, you know? You know the expression? Whatever happens, happens. That way you can live your life in a normal fashion,” Trump added.

His comments appeared to refer to the attempted assassination in Butler, Pennsylvania, where 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired at Trump and nicked his ear.

However, the remark prompted questions online, with some viewers claiming they could not hear a popping sound in the available rally clips.

Donald Trump’s struggle to pronounce ‘Bible’ adds to rally scrutiny

The popping sound was not the only moment from the Georgia event to attract attention. Trump also appeared to struggle while pronouncing the word “Bible,” prompting further discussion about his speech.

“He might not be able to read the Baleble (bible) as much, maybe he doesn't know every single passage ... but he's by far the best leader for saving us and saving religion,” he said.

The stumble drew attention alongside the comments about the sound, with some viewers questioning his cognitive abilities.

Donald Trump’s Florida appearance draws attention to his voice

Before travelling to Georgia, Trump spoke to reporters in Florida. His voice stood out to Aaron Rupar, an independent journalist and political commentator, who commented on how he sounded during the exchange.

“Trump sounds like hell during bizarre pre-rally gaggle,” Rupar wrote on X.

“Speaking to reporters before traveling to Georgia for a rally, Trump could barely speak,” he added.

Donald Trump faces renewed scrutiny after South Carolina speech gaffes

The Georgia rally came days after Trump visited Clemson, South Carolina, on Wednesday, October 21, to campaign for Darline Graham, the sister of the late senator Lindsey Graham. She had been appointed to fill his seat.

Trump’s speech at the event was marked by several verbal slips. He confused the names of awards he had not received and appeared to struggle to recall the name of Lake Ontario, which he has sought to rename “Lake America.”

The event also drew disruptions. Trump was reportedly heckled at least nine times, while protesters were removed from the rally. One protester was allegedly punched.

Trump is scheduled to travel to Port Huron, Michigan, on Sunday, October 25, where he is expected to speak at 3 pm local time at McMorran Place Arena. He is also expected to appear at rallies across Mississippi, Texas and Ohio before returning to Florida for another campaign event.