FBI confirms former President Trump was struck by bullet during rally

The FBI confirmed Friday that former President Donald Trump was indeed struck by a bullet, or a fragment of one, during an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania earlier this month. The agency’s statement clarifies previous uncertainties and aims to address the ongoing political controversy surrounding Trump’s injury.

In a recent update, the FBI stated that the projectile that hit Trump’s ear was a bullet, which could have been whole or fragmented. This marks the most definitive statement from federal law enforcement regarding the nature of Trump’s injury, despite previous conflicting reports. Earlier, FBI Director Christopher Wray and other officials had expressed uncertainty, with some suggesting the injury might have been caused by shrapnel, glass, or even a fall.

Trump has consistently asserted that he was struck by a complete bullet, dismissing suggestions of alternative causes. On his Truth Social platform, he declared, “It was, unfortunately, a bullet that hit my ear, and hit it hard.” His campaign has vehemently opposed any alternate theories, with advisor Steven Cheung accusing critics of peddling falsehoods.

The FBI’s statement comes amid heightened scrutiny and political backlash. Trump’s assertion of having “taken a bullet for democracy” has been a focal point in the debate, leading to pointed attacks on Wray and the FBI’s credibility. The agency has consistently labeled the incident as an attempted assassination, underscoring its commitment to a thorough investigation.

The FBI is currently examining bullet fragments and other evidence related to the attack. The agency has sought to interview Trump to obtain a victim statement as part of its standard investigative procedures. The shooting, which resulted in the death of the attacker and injuries to other victims, has seen a significant allocation of resources from the FBI.

During a House Judiciary hearing this week, Wray provided new details about the attacker, a 20-year-old who had researched the JFK assassination and used a drone near the rally site. The shooter was killed by Secret Service agents at the scene.

The investigation has drawn bipartisan interest, with lawmakers from both parties praising Wray for his updates. This contrasts sharply with earlier criticisms faced by former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, who resigned following allegations of obstructing inquiries into the incident.