Salena Zito’s Insightful New Book

Veteran political reporter Salena Zito has released a compelling new book titled “Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland.” The book, published just before the first anniversary of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, delves into what Zito perceives as a significant oversight by mainstream media regarding Trump’s connection with American voters.

Trump’s Unique Connection with Everyday Americans

Zito shares her observations from her initial interview with Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign. She noted his genuine interactions with individuals often overlooked by politicians, such as janitors, caterers, and electricians. This authenticity, she argues, set Trump apart as a candidate who saw and valued people typically ignored by elected officials. Her experiences traveling across the country and engaging with voters reinforced her belief in Trump’s potential to win the 2016 election.

The 2024 Campaign and Youth Engagement

Fast forward to Trump’s 2024 campaign, Zito highlights a notable increase in young voter engagement. She observed a surge of enthusiasm among first-time voters who were drawn to Trump’s message of Americanism and national unity. This demographic, she notes, was eager to participate in something larger than themselves, captivated by Trump’s vision for the country.

The Butler Rally Incident

Zito’s book also recounts the harrowing events of July 13, 2024, when a gunman opened fire at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The attack resulted in injuries to two individuals and the tragic death of firefighter Corey Comperatore. Zito was present at the rally and recalls her instinctive decision to continue reporting despite the danger. Her firsthand account provides readers with an intimate look at the incident and its aftermath.

Community and Patriotism at Trump Rallies

Throughout her coverage of Trump’s rallies, Zito observed a strong sense of community among attendees. Despite varying levels of support for Trump, rally-goers shared a common sense of patriotism and excitement. Zito emphasizes that this collective spirit was often overlooked by her peers in journalism but was evident to her at every event she attended in Pennsylvania.