Former President Donald Trump showcased an immigration chart during the Republican National Convention on Thursday night, crediting it with literally saving his life during an incident last Saturday.
“Less than four years ago, I handed this administration the strongest border in American history, but you can see on the chart that saved my life… that was the chart that saved my life,” Trump said, as the chart was displayed on the screen behind him.
During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania last week, Trump pointed to the same chart when shots rang out, striking him in the right ear. Many believe Trump’s turn to the chart, which shows the number of illegal immigrants entering the country, saved his life as he looked at it just as the bullet hit.
Trump expressed pride in the chart, noting that it demonstrated a significant decrease in illegal crossings during his administration, followed by a spike in recent years.
“Oh, there it is, that’s pretty good, wow,” Trump remarked upon seeing the chart on the RNC screen. “Last time I put up that chart I never really got to look at it. Without this chart, I would not be here today.”
The attack injured Trump and resulted in the death of Pennsylvania firefighter Corey Comperatore. Two other rally attendees, David Dutch and James Copenhaver, were also injured.
During his speech, Trump paid tribute to the victims, calling them “great warriors.”
“Tragically, the shooter claimed the life of one of our fellow Americans, Corey Comperatore, and seriously wounded two other great warriors, David Dutch and James Copenhaver. I spoke to all three families of these tremendous people — our love and prayers are with them, and always will be,” Trump said.
“Corey, a highly respected former fire chief, was accompanied by his wife Helen and two precious daughters. He lost his life selflessly acting as a human shield to protect them from flying bullets… what a fine man he was,” Trump added.