On September 15, 2024, former President Donald Trump survived his second assassination attempt—echoing a long history of political violence in the U.S. Nearly 40% of presidents have faced threats, and four were killed while in office.
Presidents are frequent targets because they symbolize the nation’s politics and power. In Trump’s case, both attackers were reportedly disillusioned former supporters.
From Lincoln’s assassination to Reagan’s shooting, these incidents highlight the persistent risks of leadership. Trump’s recent close calls in Florida and Pennsylvania show those dangers remain real today. Yet each attempt has also been met with resilience, reminding Americans that while democracy is vulnerable, it endures.
