Biden speaks with Trump over phone after shocking attack at Pennsylvania rally

U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with former President Donald Trump over the phone following the assassination attempt at Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The White House announced the call on its social media account, stating: “President Biden is returning to Washington tonight and will continue to receive regular updates from homeland security and law enforcement officials.”

Details of the conversation between Biden and Trump were not disclosed.

Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin expressed their reactions to the attack on social media. Blinken conveyed his shock and sadness over the shooting, adding that he was “grateful” Trump was safe.

“As President Biden said, there is no place for political violence in the U.S.,” Blinken emphasized, urging everyone to condemn the incident.

Secretary Austin also condemned the violence, stating, “This kind of violence has no place in our democracy.”

He expressed relief that Trump was unharmed and extended his prayers to the former President, his family, and all those affected by the “horrific event.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson announced the House would conduct a “thorough investigation” into the attack.

“The American people have a right to know the facts. We will ensure Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, along with DHS and FBI officials, appear before our committees as soon as possible,” he asserted.