How was he able to get that close?
Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed strong condemnation on Tuesday regarding the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, emphasizing that such attacks are unacceptable and must be prevented in the future. In an interview set to air on “NBC Nightly News,” Garland underscored the severity of the situation, noting that Trump’s being targeted by a shooter reflects a disturbing security lapse that needs immediate attention.
Garland confirmed that Trump was indeed the target of an assassination attempt, describing the event as “extremely alarming” due to the shooter’s proximity to the former president. He stressed the importance of addressing and understanding the motive behind the attack to ensure that such incidents do not recur. Garland warned that democracy is at risk if individuals resort to violence to achieve their goals, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation into the motives behind the attack.
With the 2024 presidential election approaching, Garland raised concerns about increasing political violence and threats in a polarized society. He pointed out that political violence undermines the democratic process, which relies on voting and accepting election outcomes rather than resorting to aggression. Garland also addressed the rising threats against law enforcement officials, emphasizing the dangers posed when individuals’ identities are publicly targeted.
Garland responded to recent judicial rulings, including one by U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, which challenged the constitutionality of his special counsel appointments. He defended his actions, stating his long legal experience and commitment to upholding the law. Furthermore, he reiterated the importance of maintaining the Justice Department’s independence from the White House, drawing lessons from historical events like Watergate to ensure that law enforcement remains unbiased and free from political influence.
Additionally, Garland condemned the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey by an Illinois sheriff’s deputy, describing the video as “horrific.” He assured that the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is closely monitoring the case, where the deputy faces murder charges. Garland’s comments reflect his ongoing commitment to addressing both high-profile and systemic issues within the justice system.
