Trump says he’s "okay" with journalists getting shot before him, sparking backlash

Trump’s recent comments about journalists at a rally ignite backlash as his campaign attempts to clarify the statement

During a rally in Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump made a controversial remark, suggesting he would not mind if journalists were harmed in an assassination attempt targeting him.

Speaking on the bulletproof glass surrounding him, Trump stated, "To get me, somebody would have to shoot through the fake news. And I don’t mind that so much." The comment drew widespread criticism, as reporters and media advocates voiced concerns about Trump’s rhetoric toward the press.

In response to the backlash, Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung issued a statement claiming Trump’s comments were misinterpreted. According to Cheung, Trump was emphasizing that journalists covering him might also be in danger, saying, “He was actually looking out for their welfare, far more than his own!” However, the statement failed to align with Trump’s original words, prompting additional scrutiny from journalists and media outlets.

CNN reporter Alayna Treene, who has faced personal threats during Trump rallies, noted the potential risks of such remarks. "This being a joke or not... I sincerely hope no one attempts to act on this,” Treene posted on X. This incident marks yet another escalation in Trump’s rhetoric against the media, following recent remarks calling reporters “monsters” and “dishonest people” at a North Carolina rally, as reported by CNN.

This being a joke or not, as someone who has attended dozens of Trump's rallies — including the assassination attempt in Butler, PA — and has been personally threatened repeatedly, I sincerely hope no one attempts to act on this. https://t.co/cnzs2QLlkU

— Alayna Treene (@alaynatreene) November 3, 2024

This incident adds to Trump’s history of targeting media organizations he views unfavorably. His recent lawsuit against CBS News and complaint filed with the Federal Election Commission against the Washington Post for alleged bias underscore a concerning pattern, raising alarms about possible actions against the press if he returns to office.