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Salena Zito, a seasoned political journalist with over 20 years of experience, unveils her gripping narrative in her latest book titled ‘Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland.’ Released Tuesday, this book takes readers back to a pivotal moment on July 13, 2024, when gunfire erupted during President Donald Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital prior to the release, Zito reflected on that chaotic day, stating, “I didn’t get down. There was this inner voice that told me, ‘You have a job to do, continue doing it.’”
As young shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks fired into the crowd, Zito stood within the Secret Service’s secure perimeter, dangerously close to the stage where Trump was speaking.
Defying Fear in a Moment of Crisis
Zito recalled, “Time has these layers that happen. It’s not about remembering them; it’s about experiencing them. I saw a sea of navy blue suits surround him quickly. Then came the sound of four more shots. I still didn’t get down.”
This incident, now etched in history, was captured on video by the network’s pool camera, reaching viewers worldwide in a flash. Zito, also a gun owner, instantly recognized the sound of gunshots and knew she was witnessing something monumental unfold.
Approximately eight minutes into Trump’s speech, Zito found herself standing with her daughter, son-in-law, and Trump campaign aide, Michel Picard. It was Picard who ultimately brought Zito to the ground for safety.
The Heroism Amidst Chaos
Zito explained, “Michel Picard takes me down and lies on top of me and covers me. He will always be a hero in my heart. He covered my daughter while my son-in-law shielded her as well.”
Even from her vulnerable position, Zito remained alert, capturing the chilling sounds of chaos surrounding her. She could hear Trump shouting for his shoes, others calling for a medic, and the frantic screams of attendees.
Empowered by her insights as a journalist, Zito had her phone recorder on, initially intending to capture Trump’s speech. She said, “I always do that, wanting to ensure I got the nuance. I could see and hear everything happening around me.”
Trump’s voice was audible, rallying the crowd as he urged, “USA!” Notably, Zito observed a different side of the president during that fraught moment, a revelation detailed in her book.
Unprecedented Access and the Aftermath
A reporter for the Washington Examiner, Zito has also contributed to The Washington Post and served as a columnist for the New York Post. Following the shooting, Trump reached out to her multiple times, calling her seven times within 24 hours of the incident.
Originally slated to interview Trump before the rally, Zito’s plans shifted due to the unpredictable nature of presidential schedules. After the rally, she was set to travel with Trump to Bedminster, New Jersey, for an interview.
Miraculously, Trump survived the attempt on his life with just a graze from a bullet, thanks in part to his immigration chart that he turned to face during the chaos. Tragically, one rally attendee, firefighter Corey Comperatore, lost his life shielding his wife and daughters from the gunfire, while two others sustained critical injuries.
In a poignant show of respect, Trump honored Comperatore’s family by returning to Butler to complete the rally later that year.
A Book for All Americans
In her heartfelt remarks, Zito emphasized the book’s purpose, stating, “This book is for everyone. It serves as a witness to history, told in a conversational and authentic manner. I recount the story exactly as it happened.”
Furthermore, she noted that her memoir delves deeper into the themes of place and rootedness in American politics, elements she believes both Republicans and Democrats often overlook. Zito concluded, “It’s part of America’s experience, highlighting the importance of understanding people better. Regardless of what happens next, there is always a light shining on these experiences.”
