In a recent public statement, legendary singer and actress Barbra Streisand suggested that former President Donald Trump is to blame for the assassination attempt on his life due to his reputation as a bully. Streisand's comments come in the wake of a failed assassination attempt on Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.
The assassination attempt involved a 20-year-old assailant, Thomas Matthew Crooks, who fired eight rounds from an AR-15-style rifle, wounding Trump and killing an audience member. Crooks was subsequently shot and killed by the U.S. Secret Service. Trump sustained a minor injury to his right ear and was quickly taken to a hospital, where he was treated and released in stable condition.
Hot take by chanteuse, Ms. Barbara Streisand:
You do you it to yourself, you do, and that’s why it really hurts…🎶🎶 pic.twitter.com/SuQrcSfDOT— Ⓥ/Ⓥ (@F1ckleS1ckle) July 19, 2024
Streisand, a long-time critic of Trump, made her controversial remarks on social media and during public appearances. She argued that Trump's behavior and rhetoric have created a hostile environment, which ultimately led to the violent incident. "When you bully and demean people, you set a dangerous precedent," Streisand stated. "Trump's own actions have contributed to the animosity that surrounds him".
Her comments have sparked a significant backlash from Trump supporters and conservative figures, who accuse her of victim-blaming. However, Streisand is not alone in her criticism. Various public figures and political commentators have highlighted Trump's combative style and divisive rhetoric as factors that might incite violence.
Barbara Streisand is pro-America all the sudden? 😂 https://t.co/Je8IjT6n9f
— Amicus 🇺🇲 (Trad-Husband) (@dansfullquiver) July 19, 2024
In response to the assassination attempt, Trump has doubled down on his rhetoric, calling the incident a "tragic example of the extreme left's radicalism." He emphasized his commitment to continue his campaign undeterred, vowing to "fight back harder than ever" against what he describes as "political violence" aimed at silencing him and his supporters.
The attack has also prompted a renewed focus on security for political candidates. The Secret Service has faced scrutiny for potential security lapses at the rally, leading to calls for increased protective measures.
In a broader context, the incident has intensified the already heated political climate as the 2024 presidential election approaches. President Joe Biden and former presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama have all condemned the attack, underscoring the need for unity and civil discourse in American politics.
Streisand's comments have only added fuel to the fire, reflecting the deep political divisions in the country. As the nation grapples with the implications of the attempted assassination, the conversation around political violence and accountability continues to evolve.