Trump assassination attempt was tragic but it was also a sign of our divisive politics and angry, violent country

I was scrolling through my news feed when I saw the breaking story that former President Donald Trump had been shot. It was an apparent wound to his right ear.

In the past I would immediately go to the TV or radio. This time I didn’t. Still haven’t.

A few friends and I have talked recently about who would be the first target, President Joe Biden or Trump (seen above in a public domain photo posted on wikimedia commons). I thought it would be Biden because of all the demeaning rhetoric towards him from the cult. I was wrong.

I’m sad about innocent folks being killed and wounded. At 9:15 on Saturday night their fate is not known. The alleged gunman is dead, according to the Secret Service.

We live in what can be called a gun culture. Add to that the frustration and anger which seems to be all around us. I’m no longer shocked or surprised. I think I’m numb.

Apparently Trump is awake and doing fine. I’m expecting the wrong-wing people to point at Biden and son Hunter, accusing them of hiring a hitman.

Using language like this: “The only way Biden can win is to eliminate his competition. Trump.”

Here’s what I’m wondering; Will this near-death experience soften him? Or will he come out angrier and meaner?

I’m hoping for the first. I’m expecting the second.

What are you thinking?

Rick Knobe is a former mayor of Sioux Falls and a longtime radio talk show host who is now retired but remains active and involved in his community and state. His columns appear regularly on The South Dakota Standard.