Elon Musk has drawn criticism for his comments following a second assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
After reports emerged of gunfire near Trump’s property in Florida, Musk took to his platform, X, to express surprise that similar threats have not been directed at Trump’s political opponents, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
On September 15, 2024, shots were fired near Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, marking the second assassination attempt on Trump in two months. The Secret Service responded by opening fire on an armed individual, recovering an AK-style firearm at the scene. Trump was unharmed in the incident.
This follows a previous attempt in July 2024, when shots were fired at a campaign rally, intensifying concerns about political violence as the 2024 US elections approach.
Musk, a known supporter of Trump, questioned why there have been no similar attacks against Biden or Harris, writing on X, “And no one is even trying to assassinate Biden/Kamala.”
His remarks sparked outrage, with supporters of Harris accusing Musk of inciting violence against Biden and Harris.
Vice President Kamala Harris condemned the attack on Trump, stating on X, “Violence has no place in America,” and expressed relief that Trump was unharmed.
President Joe Biden, who withdrew from the 2024 race following a challenging debate with Trump, also condemned the violence. He praised federal law enforcement and the Secret Service for their work, emphasizing, “There is no place for political violence or any violence ever in our country.”