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By Flynn Nicholls
US News Reporter
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The failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump may "propel" him to "total victory" in November's election, according to Republican strategist John Thomas, who said it will provide a "moment of unity."
Former President Trump stood up bloodied after he was shot through his right ear when a gunman, who the FBI have identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, opened fire during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
One rally attendee was killed and two others were critically injured, according to the Secret Service, who neutralized and killed the shooter.
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After agents gave the all clear, Trump stood up, surrounded by bodyguards, and pumped his fist at the crowd, who gave a huge cheer.
Thomas told Sky News that the nation would be "rallying behind Trump" and that it will "propel him to total victory" in the November presidential election against his Democratic rival, President Joe Biden.
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"Immediately after [Trump] got up at his rally, you'll notice that the crowd cheered, with epic proportions," he said.
"We're seeing all over the country that people, whether honestly you like [Trump] or you don't, you are rallying behind Trump in this moment.
"And I anticipate. I think this is going to be a moment of unity. And I suspect it will propel Donald Trump's campaign to total victory in November."
Thomas also remarked on Trump's immediate reaction to the shooting.
"Where most might seek to take cover and shelter, Donald Trump got right back up and pumped his fist and uttered the words 'fight, fight, fight,' because he understood the magnitude of the moment was bigger than Donald Trump and he became America in that moment," he said.
"I think it is a moment in time where Americans, so many Americans, are craving that level of leadership. I think this moment is going to become much bigger than just an assassination attempt, and more of a reflection of Trump's strength and refusal to give up."
Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told Newsweek that Crooks is now dead. He shot and killed a male rally attendee and critically injured two other adult men, as well as injuring Trump's ear.
The police said they are not yet prepared to identify the victims. An AR-style rifle was recovered from the scene, although it is not yet clear if it was the weapon used in the shooting.
Trump spoke out directly after the incident through a Truth Social post informing people that he was fine. He also thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement officers for their quick reaction, shared condolences for supporters who were killed or injured and said he would still be going to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, which begins on July 15.
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