Books Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America's Heartland  by Salena Zito (Author)

"Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America's Heartland" by Salena Zito is a gripping firsthand account and political analysis centered around the near assassination attempt on President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July 2024. Zito, a seasoned journalist with deep ties to the area, was just a few feet from the podium when gunfire erupted, and she provides an eyewitness narrative of the chaotic event and its immediate aftermath.

The book expands beyond the assassination attempt to explore the political and cultural dynamics of America's heartland that were pivotal in Trump's 2024 electoral victory. Zito offers insights into the motivations and mindset of Trump supporters, the challenges facing the American middle class, and the broader political struggles that shape rural and small-town America.

Zito also had unprecedented access to Trump, his top aides, running mate JD Vance, supporters like Elon Musk, and the campaign’s security detail, giving readers an inside look at the campaign's resilience and strategy. The book reflects on themes of resilience, political renewal, and the deep bond between Trump and his base in places like Butler, Pennsylvania.