After Florida assassination scare, Kamala Harris calls Donald Trump with well wishes, says she's 'grateful he's safe'

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ET OnlineLast Updated: Sep 18, 2024, 07:05:00 AM IST

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US Presidential Elections 2024: US Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with former President Donald Trump to express relief over his safety following gunfire near his Florida golf club. The FBI is investigating the incident as an attempted assassination. President Joe Biden also expressed relief and emphasized that violence has no place in America.

Election 2024 Latest: Trump and Harris resume campaigning after apparent assassination attempt — Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris Vice is interviewed by National Association of Black Journalists members Tonya Mosley, and Gerren Keith Gaynor, with moderator Eugene Daniels, at the WHYY studio in Philadelphia, Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

US Vice President Kamala Harris held a phone call with former President Donald Trump on Tuesday, according to a White House official. The conversation was described as "cordial and brief." This exchange occurred a day after gunfire was reported near Trump's golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the incident as an attempted assassination. "Vice President Harris called former President Trump this afternoon to speak with him directly to express that she is grateful he is safe. It was a cordial and brief conversation," the White House official said. Harris earlier expressed relief over Trump's safety, stating on X, "I am glad he is safe. Violence has no place in America."

Ryan Wesley Routh has been charged in connection with the incident. The charges include possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Routh will remain in custody until his detention hearing on September 23 and arraignment on September 30.

This incident marks the second assassination attempt on Trump during his current presidential campaign. Previously, there was an attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden also expressed relief that Trump was unharmed. "I have been briefed by my team regarding what federal law enforcement is investigating as a possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today. A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and their efforts to keep the former President and those around him safe."

Biden emphasized that there is no place for violence in the country and has directed his team to ensure the Secret Service has all necessary resources to protect Trump. "There is no place for political violence or any violence ever in our country," Biden added.

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