‘Without this chart, I would not be here today,’ Trump said of the immigration graphic used at his Butler, Pa. rally
At the Republican National Convention on Thursday night, former President Donald Trump showcased a chart on immigration that he credits with literally saving his life last Saturday.
“Less than four years ago, I handed this administration the strongest border in American history. You can see on the chart that saved my life… that was the chart that saved my life,” Trump said as the chart was displayed on the screen behind him.
Trump Honors Fallen Firefighter Corey Comperatore at GOP Convention: ‘Spirit that forged America’
During Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last week, shots rang out, striking the former president in the right ear. In sheer luck or perhaps fate, Trump had pivoted to point at the chart just as the bullet hit. Many believe that turning to look at the chart, which shows the number of illegal immigrants entering the country, saved his life.
Trump expressed pride in the chart, noting that it illustrated a significant decrease in illegal crossings under his administration, followed by a spike in recent years.
“Oh, there it is, that’s pretty good, wow,” Trump said, noticing the chart on the screen at the RNC. “Last time I put up that chart, I never really got to look at it. Without this chart, I would not be here today.”
The attack that injured Trump also claimed the life of Pennsylvania firefighter Corey Comperatore and injured two other rally attendees, David Dutch and James Copenhaver. Trump paid tribute to them during his remarks, calling the injured men “great warriors.”
“Tragically, the shooter claimed the life of one of our fellow Americans, Corey Comperatore, and seriously wounded two other great warriors, David Dutch and James Copenhaver. I spoke to all three families of these tremendous people — our love and prayers are with them, and always will be,” Trump said.
“Corey, a highly respected former fire chief, was accompanied by his wife Helen and two precious daughters. He lost his life selflessly acting as a human shield to protect them from flying bullets… what a fine man he was,” Trump added.
As a new blogger, witnessing this dramatic moment at the RNC was both surreal and deeply moving. The event underscored the human stories behind the headlines and the personal stakes involved in political life. It was a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the unexpected ways in which destiny can intervene. Trump’s heartfelt tribute and the story of the chart that saved his life will undoubtedly become a memorable chapter in the annals of political history.