Author and long-time New York Post contributor Salena Zito reflects on her experience standing near President Trump when he was shot on July 13, in her new book “Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland.” Zito describes the moment Trump was shot and the events that followed, emphasizing the impact it had on history.
Zito, who had a close relationship with President Trump, details their final interaction before the shooting, highlighting their shared love for family. She recounts the shock and chaos that ensued after the shots were fired, leading to a momentous event that would change the course of history.
As Zito describes the harrowing experience in her book, she emphasizes the need to remain calm in the face of danger, knowing that the events unfolding would have a lasting impact. She shares an exclusive excerpt from “Butler,” shedding light on the day she witnessed history in the making.
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Zito vividly recalls the moment she heard the gunshots and saw President Trump being shot during a rally in Pennsylvania. She describes the chaos and confusion that followed, as Secret Service agents formed a shield around the president to protect him. Zito and her family found themselves in the line of fire, with her son-in-law shielding her daughter as they took cover.
Amidst the chaos, Zito found herself just feet away from the president, witnessing the events unfold in slow motion. She describes the screams and cries of the crowd, the adrenaline-fueled actions of those around her, and the surreal nature of the moment that would forever be etched in history.
As the shots rang out, it was clear that some were from a different-caliber gun. President Trump was surrounded by his detail, exchanging words with them. The agents remained crouched but ready to act. One agent mentioned “Hawkeye” moving to the spare, while others confirmed the shooter was down and it was safe to move. Trump insisted on getting his shoes, despite his injuries, as the agents formed a protective circle around him.
Amidst chants of “USA! USA! USA!” and “Fight. Fight. Fight,” Trump and his detail began to move. The crowd erupted in joy as they left the stage. Despite the chaos, a Secret Service agent maintained a watchful eye, even aiming a rifle at an onlooker. The tense atmosphere didn’t deter Trump from raising his fist in unity with the crowd.
Author Salena Zito reflected on the unexpected turn of events that led her to be in such close proximity to the president. Despite the initial worries of timeliness, the day took a dramatic turn. As Trump was escorted away, Zito found a moment of release in laughter.
Reflecting on the day’s events, Zito found humor in the unexpected twists and turns. The experience served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, even for a seasoned journalist like herself.
Excerpted from Butler by Salena Zito. (Copyright 2025) Used with permission from Center Street, a division of Hachette Book Group, Inc.
