On Saturday, July 13, a gunman fired shots at Donald Trump shortly after he began speaking at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. The shooting marks the first time in more than four decades that someone who has been president of the United States was wounded in an assassination attempt. Former President Donald Trump’s injuries aren’t life-threatening, but the attack in Pennsylvania could make an already divisive presidential campaign even more volatile.
View the transcript of the story.
Discussion Questions
- Where did the shooting take place?
- What is known about the shooter at the time of this video segment?
- Why are some worried about the way this shooting will affect the national political climate?
- How did Donald Trump's political campaign respond to the shooting?
- When is the Republican National Convention?
Focus Questions
What do you think would be the most effective way to reduce political violence?
Media literacy: What do you think the most important aspect of this story is for journalists to uncover in the immediate aftermath?
Extension Activity
This shooting comes in the middle of a contentious election season (note, though, that little is known of the shooters motives or politics at the time this lesson is being written). Watch the video below and discuss how you think this attack will affect the political landscape.
2024 Election Lesson Plans and Resources
Explore our election resources to engage your students in learning about the election process and its significance at every level. Discover lessons on election fundamentals, laws, security, current events, youth involvement, and historic U.S. elections.
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