Stephen A. declares Donald Trump 2024 election winner after assassination attempt

ESPN analyst discusses the attempted assassination of Trump, declaring him the presumptive winner of the election.

Stephen A. Smith recently declared Donald Trump the presumptive winner of the 2024 presidential election. 

Smith addressed the attempted assassination of Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. "Thank God Donald Trump was not killed," Smith said, emphasising the potential chaos had the attempt succeeded. "As a nation, we're very, very fortunate."

Trump was injured, with a bullet grazing his ear, but he was quickly evacuated by Secret Service. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was identified and neutralised by Secret Service snipers after killing one person and wounding two others. Trump later called for national unity, stating, "In this moment it is more important than ever that we stand united and show our true characters as Americans."

Smith expressed relief at Trump's survival, remarking, "He just handed Donald Trump the election." He explained that the dramatic visuals of Trump, bloodied but defiant, would resonate strongly with voters. "You can't buy a better photo than that if you're a politician," Smith added, highlighting the powerful imagery of Trump surrounded by Secret Service with the American flag in the background. "It's a very upsetting story here that at the very least needs to be addressed."

Stephen A. Smith is a well-known sports television personality, radio host, and journalist. He frequently appears as an NBA analyst for ESPN and has hosted "The Stephen A. Smith Show" on ESPN Radio. Smith is also a commentator on ESPN's "First Take" and a featured columnist for ESPN and The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Smith's remarks reflect his belief that the incident has significantly bolstered Trump's position in the presidential race. "In my opinion, he just handed Donald Trump the election," Smith reiterated, pointing to the potent symbolism of Trump's reaction to the attempt on his life.