Trump's Golf Partner Praises His "Stoicism" and "Courage" After Apparent Assassination Attempt

Real estate investor Steve Witkoff recounts the harrowing moments when former President Trump's life was threatened while playing golf, commending his unwavering composure and concern for the safety of others.

Former President Trump faced a chilling reality on Sunday when shots rang out near his golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida. As the GOP nominee's golf partner, real estate investor Steve Witkoff, played by his side, he witnessed firsthand the courage and composure that have now garnered praise from Trump supporters and security experts alike.

"Yesterday was quite a day," Witkoff told Fox News host Sean Hannity. "I actually feel blessed that I was there... I witnessed what it's like for my dear friend to live his normal life." This normal life, however, has been marred by two apparent assassination attempts in recent months, including the latest incident where gunshots were heard in Trump's vicinity.

Trump's Golf Partner Praises His "Stoicism" and "Courage" After Apparent Assassination Attempt

According to Witkoff, the incident unfolded rapidly. "There was a man with an...assault rifle who's attempting to kill him. It was terrible." In the face of grave danger, Witkoff observed that Trump exhibited remarkable resilience and determination.

"I got to see... a man who was stoic, courageous, cared about his friends' safety first before his own life. He was an inspiration to everybody who was around him yesterday."

Trump's Golf Partner Praises His "Stoicism" and "Courage" After Apparent Assassination Attempt

The suspect in the apparent assassination attempt, 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was charged Monday with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and having a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Law enforcement officials released a chilling timeline of events, revealing that Routh was in the vicinity of Trump's golf course tree line for about 12 hours, from roughly 2 a.m. to 1:31 p.m., before the attempted attack.

Acting Director Ronald Rowe Jr. of the U.S. Secret Service clarified that Routh did not have a line of sight to Trump and did not get any shots off. "The protective methodologies of the Secret Service were effective yesterday. The former president's protective apparatus allowed for the early identification of the threat and led to a safe evacuation," Rowe said.

Trump's Golf Partner Praises His "Stoicism" and "Courage" After Apparent Assassination Attempt

Witkoff's presence at the golf course on that fateful day provided a firsthand account of the Secret Service's swift and effective response. "The Secret Service were exceptional," he emphasized. "They had the president secured... in my estimation, maybe after the first shot, certainly after the second shot."

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of political figures, particularly in the wake of the assassination attempt on Trump in Butler, Pa., in July. In response, the Secret Service has increased assets to protect Trump, already an enhanced security posture for the 2024 GOP nominee.

Trump's Golf Partner Praises His "Stoicism" and "Courage" After Apparent Assassination Attempt

Witkoff expressed his gratitude that his friend was not injured or killed, and hailed the Secret Service agent who interdicted Routh. "I'm grateful to that agent who interdicted and that entire team."

Trump's courage and composure under fire have drawn comparisons to other iconic leaders who have faced similar challenges. His supporters have rallied around him, expressing admiration for his resilience and determination to continue his political career despite the threats against his life.

Trump's Golf Partner Praises His "Stoicism" and "Courage" After Apparent Assassination Attempt

As the investigation into the assassination attempt continues, Witkoff's account serves as a testament to the courage of those who protect the lives of our nation's leaders and the unwavering spirit of those who lead us.