The attempted assassination of President Trump - my thoughts (and some historic context)

[@VloggingThroughHistory]

PLEASE don't make me turn off comments on this video. If you can't honor what I spoke about here, keep it to yourself. I'll delete and block without hesitation. Quite a few people already illustrating what I said at 12:45

[@Woap_64]

can I disagree if I'm respectful? I haven't watched the video yet but just as a question. Quick edit, it seems as you guys have completely misunderstood my comment. I obviously more than just disagree with attempted murder, I meant it as I didn't know what he was going to say in the video at all and I didn't want to jump to conclusions. I am a Republican fyi, but even if I wasn't I would never say something that vile.

[@LordInquisitorXariusDrakhart]

Stop deleting my comments, I am not saying anything uncivil.

[@Bruhdaughhh]

@Woap_64 You should be blocked, not even watching the video and in disagreement probably to the support of it happening is disgusting and speaks truth about the person you are.

[@oogabooga191]

​@@LordInquisitorXariusDrakhartwhat are you saying that your comments keep getting deleted?

[@JalenKenobi]

@@Bruhdaughhhhe didn't say he agreed or disagreed yet, he just asked that after he watches the video if he disagrees can he comment respectfully. Goodness man

[@Adamdidit]

Political violence is scary but that phone teetering on the edge of the chair arm is scarier imo.

[@jamesharrington4518]

Lol

[@VloggingThroughHistory]

Haha! It was perfectly safe. I used it to control the camera.

[@harryyyyyyyyyyy7273]

@@andygeary3531 i actually dont fully agree with his point about not joking about it cos i think to an extent some jokes can be made in good fun, but in the video he literally has an entire segment regarding not making jokes about the assassination, is it that hard to respect that whilst commenting on this video?

[@andygeary3531]

​@@harryyyyyyyyyyy7273 sorry I'm only a couple of mins into the video so I hadn't seen that. The joke was aimed at the pathetic excuse of the security in measure, not at trump or the assassination attempt. I have removed the comment out of respect for Chris's wishes.

[@teanott5073]

I was thinking the same thing lmfao, on the edge of life

[@FreedomDove2]

Hearing Chris talk about this issue made me realize there are still normal, reasonable people in our society

[@zeropoint216]

I say this as someone who is online a lot, get off the internet and you will find a lot more of those kind of people.

[@captainobvious4556]

@@zeropoint216So true and it’s refreshing to see.

[@flankman9385]

“This guy that I agree with made me realize that there are people I agree with” Incredibly profound

[@elmanuele]

@@zeropoint216Yes. The insanity is online mostly, anonimity encourages odd behaviour.

[@UnitardZZack]

We're not few and far between... We just seem like it because we don't tend to speak of these issues as often or be on social media as often as those who can't say the same.

[@matthewwarlin7421]

Chris: I don't know why people want to hear my opinion on this. Also Chris: Proceeds to demonstrate why we want to hear his opinion on this.

[@Simon_the_penguin]

Fr

[@timexyemerald6290]

💯

[@Ddonaldson9]

I think one of the biggest problems in having decent conversations is that so many conversations are happening online. It removes the humanity from an opposing viewpoint, and removes the capability to include any sort of nuance in the discussion.

[@sunkings5972]

@Ddonaldson9 Correct, but all that matters is what political leadership is saying. One side is blaming their political opposition, using it as a politcal talking point while the other isn't and condemns any and all political violence, not just the violence against people on their own side.

[@Ddonaldson9]

​@@sunkings5972 I'm sorry but no, the words of political leaders are not the only thing that matters.

[@MonkeyBanjo7]

I also have a feeling that it’s easier to say something online when the other person can’t “see you” while in person you know and see the person that your talking to a person in public instead of a profile picture.

[@timdnb78]

Divisiveness has hit it's apex. Donald Trump has been convicted of 34 felonies. The Supreme Court has become an activist, political tool. Roe was overturned. Desperation is manifesting.

[@sunkings5972]

@Ddonaldson9 when it comes to determining the trustworthiness of politicians heading into an election we really only have that and their record to go off. A huge problem here is that folks don't listen to the politicians they don't like, they rely on media friends and family to tell them what they believe or hear edited versions. Maybe you have a better way but listening is the only way I can gauge any man or woman other than the obvious actions but even with actions the explanations tend to tell more about folks than whatever they did at least in most cases. Do they take responsibility, do they lie, do they point fingers are they complaining about stuff they themselves do, stuff like that.

[@RealDannyHelmer]

We're living through history right now

[@tarokui]

Just that we have 4k coloured cameras to vlog through it

[@greasycleric2162]

Everyone always has been, we aren’t special.

[@sincitytitan7118]

@@RealDannyHelmer were always living through history

[@QuothTheRavenclaw11]

@@RealDannyHelmer Moments like this make me reflect on how people will view us years from now, and what historical events will occur, and how they will be viewed generations from now. Everything that we have said about this has already been said thousands of years ago. We live in a circle that gets larger, but still a circle. I find that so fascinating.

[@Giddog40]

It feels like we’ve been in the “events leading to” part of the history book for a while

[@soufflecobain90]

"History doesn't repeat itself, but it really does rhyme" is a really fair statement regarding the incident. And your take was very honest and straightforward, Kudos!

[@toasteroven6761]

Yep, speaking of rhymes, I'm curious, what is the reason this time around we're all treating each other like this? This problem seems too big to be caused by any one problem, but multiple big, fundamental failures. Is this a failure in basic, fundamental parenting for example, if so, what else?

[@amazinhaydz2032]

We gotta get the presidents to sit down and play Minecraft and Mario Kart more than ever

[@icecreamjunkie6790]

Exactly! AI presidents for the win.

[@TylerOfMO]

History teacher in high school, she put it the best I can understand; "Society is like a pendulum. When going through changes it will swing back and forth to extreme's. At some point it will settle in the middle, but a lot happens during that time"

[@king_supreme1102]

Yeah

[@Tanmark1998]

The 10 year limit on secret service protection of former presidents was introduced in 1994 but it was abolished by the Former Presidents Protection Act of 2012, former presidents have it for life now.

[@c.hansen3139]

@@Tanmark1998 I wondered because I remember George HW Bush's detail signing off after he was buried.

[@SomeGuyFromUtah]

Straight of the secret service FAQ. How long do former presidents receive Secret Service protection after they leave office? In 1965, Congress authorized the Secret Service (Public Law 89-186) to protect a former president and his/her spouse during their lifetime, unless they decline protection.

[@zachshepherd9445]

I don’t know if it’s the right time for a joke, but kinda funny to think Jimmy Carter still has secret service protection haha

[@wgreenjr81]

Thank you, that wasn't adding up for me when stated.

[@Batmans_Pet_Goldfish]

I thought so, thank you for clearing that up.

[@Adam17broqn10]

I used to be in awe of the sheer amount of history crammed into the 1960s. And here we are, the 20s are just as impactful

[@colleen3749]

Same - born post 1960's I marveled at people living through such turbulance and chaos in one decade but now.......here we are.

[@rnnyeet]

"there are decades where nothing happens, and there are weeks when decades happen" - lenin

[@DanNikon1776]

Every decade is lol, a lot happens in 10 years. The year 2000 was wildly different from 1990, and 2010 was wildly different from 2000.

[@geobrunson9111]

So, basically, you asked why we would be interested in your analysis... then you answered your question by providing 15 minutes of nuanced and thoughtful commentary. Thank you for this "take a step back and think carefully" video. I'm from Belgium, but you're my go-to American historian 🙂

[@ryanbutcher8366]

One of your best videos Chris. Genuinely needs to be heard by a lot of people. I’m not a religious person but I can see why you’re a pastor. You’re an excellent communicator. Thanks for your insight. ❤

[@kusaselihlengubane8984]

I'm not an American but I have to say this is the most mature take I have heard on this Trump incident so far. You sir are truly an exceptional character and a good moral center.🙏

[@Bricat2024]

Agreed. I’m from Canada, and those of us in my inner circle loathe Trump and are very, very concerned about what a second term would mean for the stability of the world, especially after what happened on January 6. As far as I understand, failing to conceded an election and encouraging a violent mob to stop the peaceful transfer of power is first in US history. That’s a little bit beyond just disagreement. Having said all of that, completely agree that this was a horrendous act that never should have happened.

[@bobmcclure8069]

"I'm tired, boss. Mostly, I'm tired of people being ugly to each other." ~ John Coffey (The Green Mile) Sums it up pretty well for me...

[@kalebstuckey570]

Like the drink. Only not spelled the same.

[@handsomelyditto4215]

vote against trump then

[@williamwalker3826]

Gosh I just want to say VTH, the last couple minutes of this video broke my heart. What I can say, is you are doing your best, I respect the heck out of that. This is the most sincere, honest and level headed take iv seen about this whole situation, even from the the major News outlets. Thank you VTH for everything you have done and are doing.

[@joker9790]

I appreciate your cool-headed take in this chaotic time Chris.

[@gentleken7864]

Which is something the republican party are not doing at the moment. There is no common sense in the republican party meaning this whole thing is going to get worse. America is gone, totally gone. trump will milk this for all it's worth. Im avoiding youtubers focused on this and the American media for a good while because it's a disgrace.

[@ismaelnehme379]

That ending talking about the shooter's past gave me a lump in my throat. It's refreshing to hear such compassion about politics

[@jason200912]

You grew a throat tumor?

[@mollysullivan6414]

i started listening to mary trump's tell-all about how her family created donald trump and it was a really important reminder that bullies aren't created in vacuums. trump was effectively abandoned as a child and learned that he got respect from his dad when he was an obnoxious, defiant bully, and all he wanted was a dad--so he became who he is. the ripple effects of human mistreatment are beyond calculation. kindness is, in and of itself, prevention of every crime imaginable

[@thefriesens1071]

@@mollysullivan6414 Looks like he's not the bully.

[@jlcm1984]

"Sometimes we need to shut up and listen". Couldn't agree more. Well said.

[@chrisanderson5048]

I don’t tend to comment, but on the chance you read this, thank you for the open, clear, respectful way you spoke on this. Just … yeah, thank you

[@Irishbloke]

Seeing Chris without a green screen and video behind him is scary

[@LostNTranslations]

It's like MatPat on the couch.

[@Jonas_Heller]

​@@LostNTranslationsthe fact that Hes outside without a hat ist scarier

[@HemiSlant6828]

Well, it’s still green, but you’re watching it on a screen.

[@Irishbloke]

@@Jonas_Heller it gives me president giving an emergency message from the Oval Office vibes

[@badcornflakes6374]

He's got tons of videos where he's outside talking about things... I don't get how it's scary?

[@Cowboybrian01]

The secret service really dropped the ball in my opinion. How do you leave an elevated position like that unsecured?

[@BDizzleMySchnizzle]

It was outside of the security perimeter they had set up from what I read. So, and I'm just going by that, they didn't set up a wide enough perimeter so weren't paying attention that far out.

[@DIREWOLFx75]

@@BDizzleMySchnizzle And the part of the roof the guy was on, was hidden from the sniper team's view by a tree...

[@jason200912]

Their crappy excuse is its outside of their designated protection range. Which they're claiming is only 100m. So basically they claim they only protect against handgun assailants

[@jason200912]

It doesn't seem that there is a tree in the way.

[@cliffhass9158]

​@@DIREWOLFx75every Roof within a 1000 yards should have been secured. The guy was 130 yards away with a clear shot. That is Inconceivable. Anyone would tell you before Saturday that such a Scenario is Impossible That coupled with people 2 minutes beforehand telling officers there isa guy with on a gun on the Roof yet Trump was still allowed to speak THESE Failures by the Secret Service are Epic

[@Plaazzzz]

No matter who's side you're on, you have to agree that this should not happen and is terrifying

[@donnahanna10565]

Thank you. When people were saying those horrible things, it hit me like a ton of bricks. And I mean, I agree with Joe Biden, but I don't want to seem dead . I really do think his cognitive abilities have dissipated over his run as president. And if that was my husband, I would not have made him get up there and try to make speeches when he was having trouble. I would have wanted him to leave office dignity and to just go have a nice life with my husband however long I had left. And it had to hurt have these people that pushed you to run in the first place stab you in your chest, not even having the decency to stab you in the back. Now, these are just my feelings. Because he's supposedly came off of the stage after the debate and told people he was embarrassed. That made me sad because instead of saying it's okay, Dad or it's okay, honey, his family said no, you were you did great. Don't give up. Don't let him push you out of office. I hope people on this page really are people you can open up to and just talk to. Maybe I just had to get it off my chest cuz I remember when Ronald Reagan was running against Mondale and they were in a debate and the moderator asked a question about his age because he's significantly older than JFK and even he had a hard time during the Bay of Pigs. Well, Ronald Reagan turned it in to a joke by saying that he was not the kind of person to take his opponent's youth and inexperience and use it against him. The moderator laughed Mondale, laughed add the audience laughed.

[@staticsoul69]

VTH you’re the most sensible person in this chaotic environment, definitely the most unbiased and honest opinion I’ve heard out there and I think many of us needed to hear this, thank you for this.

[@dylanness2003]

20 years from now we’re going to have videos of people reacting to the attempt. Crazy how we witnessed something like this live on TV

[@chrisvibz4753]

i know righr

[@user-tp8pf5ke8o]

It'll be on watch mojo

[@zoomedcheese]

⁠@@user-tp8pf5ke8o’Top 10 craziest Assassination attempts of Presidents’

[@TheLordOfNothing]

To anyone reading this comment in 20 years... The world was on fucking fire.

[@Dante1920]

20 years from now? React channels on KZbin a blowing up with reactions to the event right now.

[@swisspease]

I always liked the quote that has been mis-attributed to Aristotle ~ "It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it."

[@king_supreme1102]

Simply good critical thinking skills

[@robertfetrow4612]

@@swisspease Very true I to thought initially imagine if this is all staged. Not bragging some amazing critical thinker though I try but I had the thought I thought about a lot of things

[@thechicagian9082]

I cannot believe I just lived through a "Where were you when JFK was shot" moment.

[@nathanjasper512]

No, you lived through an "almost" JFK moment.

[@danielbishop1863]

@@nathanjasper512: Perhaps you could call it a Theodore Roosevelt moment, in that a former President running for re-election got injured, but not too badly, by an assassination attempt.

[@thechicagian9082]

@@nathanjasper512 I mean it more as in a "shock" moment where you remember exactly where you were. My grandad knows exactly what he was doing and where he was when he heard the news about JFK. Same thing with my parents watching 9/11 on the news when the twin towers got hit. Of course the outcomes of the shootings are different - thankfully - but I will always remember exactly where I was when I heard the news.

[@WilC379]

Well, where were you? Lol

[@HDreamer]

@@thechicagian9082 Eh, depends what comes from this, 10 years from now you might not even remember it happened, should Trump lose the election anyway.

[@David_S52]

When people try to discuss politics with me, and I feel a bit of tension starting to come up, I always remember my Dads conversation with one of his friends. He was ask, “who are you voting for?” The response was, “ We are good friends, if we disagree we might no longer be friends because we might not see eye to eye. If you value our friendship we will talk about something else! So, what do you want to talk about?” Two things he hated to discuss, politics and his time spent in WWII as a medic.

[@Altec006322]

I never knew you were that close to where I'm from. The victim was a volunteer firefighter for our local fire department. I'm from the area. It was less than 20 minutes from where this happened. Our prayers go out to Corey's family.

[@JasonMiranda]

I'm glad u have the common sense to debunk the "staged" nonsense. I'm glad both parties are using this to change their views and speak on union

[@alexmartinez9636]

Love the setup, Chris! That background is so peaceful and a perfect neutral place to host a video like this. I appreciate your dedication to being open to everyone's opinions as well as your commitment to not alienating any of your audience. Such an impressive and unique ability these days. Thanks for your endless wealth of knowledge you share with us! Nobody I'd rather sit and learn from.

[@OzzyOSRS]

Amazing video and thoughts, prayers for you and your country, this thing has been going on more and more all across the world not just America.

[@shanefrederick7731]

This is your best video ever. Thank you for being a true unifying voice.

[@Funnynick]

🙏🙏🙏

[@joyced25]

This was very eloquently explained to provide relevant context for everyone, especially your younger viewers. I subscribed for your reactions but I gained an infinite amount of respect for you as a human being for posting your objective opinion about this entire situation. Everyone needs to dial their anger and frustrations down until the election. I'm sharing this to everyone I know regardless of political leaning. Thank you again.

[@NoobMaster-qx3oq]

Well spoken, well executed, and well informed, Chris. I always love your videos and you have definitely re-ignited my love for history! Thank you for showing how important it is to continue to have calm and compassionate debates.

[@lrxblackknight9928]

Sir, I don't think I've ever had more respect for a youtuber in my life. I'm pleased to know that there are good people doing good things and spreading good messages. Please keep being a role model and an inspiration.

[@danieln.1034]

As a liberal, I wish more people have a level-headed response like yours.

[@janehrahan5116]

So you oppose the lawfare, and condem them refusing to expand his security detail at the request of the secret service itself, and doubly condem house democrats trying to pull the detail entirely?

[@danieln.1034]

@@janehrahan5116my friend, did you watch this video? If you did, sadly you have missed the point.

[@janehrahan5116]

@@danieln.1034 So you don't? You think those things are good?

[@danieln.1034]

@@janehrahan5116what if I said yes? And what if I said no? Why do you care about the opinion of a complete stranger on the internet? Would you use that sole information to judge who I am despite we never meeting?

[@nickmalone1126]

@@janehrahan5116Dude, you’re the problem when you say stuff like this. All you’re doing is trying to cause an argument and prove YOUR point. Just stop! This is the problem. I’m far from liberal but this person seems to be reasonable and someone I could be around and vice versa. We all want the same which is the best interest for our country.

[@user-gg6tu1hv6y]

Chris, I admire your level headedness and your calm demeanor. I wish more Americans, and certainly more historians, had this!

[@nickmalone1126]

I’ve watched your videos for years and have never commented. This is a video that should be broadcast everywhere for everyone to hear. I made my kids come watch and listen. This is exactly how we all should be. I’m a Republican and none of my coworkers nor friends are and we agree to disagree and still see each other for the humans that we are. I don’t hate someone for liking a different sports team, why should I hate someone for believing something different? We all have the same best interest which is our nation and the well being of everyone in it. The hate on both sides needs to stop and PLEASE stop watching the news. That’s where the great divide comes from and let’s all just get along before our kids and grandkids are fighting a civil war over silliness. Excellent video my friend and I appreciate you.

[@bonzzo777]

Fantastic video. Thank you. In this video you show exactly why we want to hear your voice after an incident like this. Calm, intelligent, balanced, humble and respectful.

[@radicaloctagon9449]

Thank you for your insight on this! You're a very calming and intelligent presence and it's very helpful for all of us to hear you talk about this topic!

[@mike6252]

Thank God there are voices of reason, logic, and empathy left on this platform... Thank you so much for your insight brother.

[@PB0912]

@vloggingthroughhistory Chris, this was so pastoral of you. Sometimes the flock needs a little encouragement, sometimes we need a little exhortation. As always, you have a great take and solid wisdom to share. The idea that society at large has some culpability in the demons this young man must have been facing is so heart wrenching for me because I see the truth in it and I see my own guilt for it. Thanks for kindly pointing out where I can be sharper. I'll continue to pray for the victims of this horrendous crime but I'll be praying specifically for your heart as you wrestle with your personal connections to the shooter. Thanks for taking the time to share. You may not understand why people are interested but I think there are a lot of people out there that are starved for the type of wisdom you displayed here. Keep it up, it's worth something.

[@louismoyer3439]

Great video handled with the upmost of class on a very difficult issue. Keep up the great work VTH!

[@user-he6nv1in1q]

You are such a well-spoken and thoughtful person. This is the message people need to learn.

[@FireflyODA133]

Thank you for being a reasonable voice in these tumultuous times; we need more voices like this and even find myself needing to check myself. I've been equally surprised and frustrated at responses to this and truthfully some of the voices calling for calm have come from unexpected sources.

[@jacobbyrd3920]

Longtime lurker of your channel. Extremely well said. A message the world needs to hear.

[@lindaannelineharwood4891]

Thank you, Chris. For this and the other videos. I discovered VTH a month or so back, and find yours to a balanced and thoughtful take. I'd already started modeling my own strong reactions in various moments on your 'let's step back and use the lens of history and respect' and it makes a. difference. Thank you.

[@soulsleak]

the people who says its staged geniunly scares me if you think its staged please tell that to the family who lost their father or husband protecting them that its staged.

[@MeTaLISaWeSoMe95]

Oh they definitely will. I mean look at the 9/11 deniers, Sandy Hook deniers, Holocaust deniers, etc.

[@greenknightofwar7024]

It’s honestly the most insane take I’ve heard.

[@TheLibermania]

​​@@greenknightofwar7024With President Trumps wrestling background he sure knows how to blade. When he got "shot" he ducked, took a little blade and cut in his ear. Like that it bleeds. He gets up because he knows that it's safe and shows himself as the patriotic hero likehe did with that fist. The secret service and police didn't act after they got informed so Trump can say that the 2nd amendment is important and everyone needs a gun to prevent things like this. If you think i'm serious with that i wonder who is dumber, you or my "theory".

[@drewbrees22]

Even worse are the people who think Biden was involved.

[@artofstorytelling9406]

While I wouldn't go out of my way to tell the loved ones of the victims that their feelings are totally invalid cause it's all staged, I do think there's a possibility it could be staged, I just don't see it as something Trump would never do, he has demonstrated that he's willing to go farther than your usual politician to get what he wants. Plus there's a lot of weird things going on with the incident itself, like a 20 yo kid being able to outsmart the secret service, local police, etc, despite multiple witnesses claiming that they told the authorities about the gunner before he shot.

[@jake5773]

Appreciate your perspective on this Chris. Hopefully the comment section stays civil.

[@Thedabman]

Chris i dont expect you to read this, as you have tons of comments on this video but i want to express my deepest respects and gratitude for you. I dont know if you realise this yourself, as we tend to be our own biggest critics, but you are one of the most warmfeld, well spoken and balanced people i have ever stumpled upon - even tho we dont even know eachother. Everyone, including myself, can learn from you, and you motivated atleast me to be a better version of myself. Thank you man, god bless you - Casper, Denmark

[@VloggingThroughHistory]

Appreciate it Casper!

[@Thedabman]

@@VloggingThroughHistory No problem buddy, i am and will continue to gladly support you on patreon. Happy my message got through

[@rmfreeman1987]

I'm glad that there is a sane conservative out here. Thank you for doing what you do

[@cerisambrook7692]

During Kier Starmer's recent acceptance speech for being Prime Minister, one of things he did was graciously acknowedge his oppostion and that as PM he represents those who didn't vote for him but that he must serve them equally. We can be on different sides of the poltical spectrum (I didn't vote labour or Tory) but still be inclusive and respectful. More of this type of polical message needs to be said, not the crass and deporable divisiveness that now dominates much of the global polical outlook (not just the US). Your message is very much on point.

[@MustacheWins]

This! Even Rishi Sunak, who is not someone i agree with about anything, made an excellent speech in the House. Thats how politics should be.

[@hughtube5154]

But Biden said similar things in his acceptance speech. Clearly, to no effect.

[@jamesg9468]

It was an unprecedented election for the UK, Starmer got an overwhelming 400+ seats with only 33% of the vote. Corbyn in 2019 got 32% of the vote and only ended up with 202 seats. So Starmer knows there's not a huge amount of enthusiasm for his leadership.

[@simonh6371]

@@jamesg9468 Reform only got 5 seats with 18% of the vote.

[@mike04574]

Lol remember trump in 2020? Smh

[@jaycob1830]

I’ve been more democrat most my life, and I’ve always been able to respect the other side of the spectrum. I understand why they vote for who they want and why they usually don’t go my way. I respect their decision and how they want the country to move forward. The fact that many people can’t be able to disagree over really simple differences is crazy to me. I feel like after the election, it’s only going to get worse. For anyone who is potentially worried about which candidate wins, just keep moving and powering through life, at the end of the day you will be the same person the next day

[@janehrahan5116]

So what are your thougths on 1. The lawfare.2. Them trying to pull his security detail entirely. 3. refusing the secret services request to assign more agents due to it being understaffed?

[@erikdayne5429]

@@janehrahan5116I thought Trump was a billionaire. Is he not allowed to hire his own bodyguards?

[@jacobgsutton]

I think people see Trump as beyond your normal Republican candidate bc he’s illiberal mainly due to his refusal to accept the election and the damage he’s done to the electoral process. People are also genuinely worried about Trump replacing civil service workers with people only loyal to him as laid out in project 2025. I agree with you when the politicians disagree over foreign policy or like taxes or something, they deserve to still be respected. But when one candidate doesn’t even respect the constitution how could a good citizen loyal to the constitution support him. In fact he wants to be dictator on “day one” (his words). I can understand the rhetoric about him being a danger to our democracy from the Democrats, but ofc I don’t advocate violence and distain anyone who does. It is also bothersome that for 4 years Republicans have been using violent rhetoric and questioning our institutions and celebrating J6ers as “patriots” and then as soon as some express a lack of sympathy for a Putin supporter in the audience they cry. It’s cry bully shit. When Republicans go back to believing in the rule of law and condemning the insurrectionist of J6, then they deserve my respect. I am loyal to the constitution first and my country anyone who has distain for it doesn’t get my respect. That’s why I can respect President George W. Bush even though I fully and I mean fully disagree with him. I know he believes in the constitution and respects our countries institutions. Trump is not a normal candidate president that’s the bottom line. He doesn’t just like disagree on tax policy or a social issue here and there. He fundamentally has distain for the checks and balances and processes laid out in the constitution as evidenced by his dictatorial instincts and rhetoric.

[@lay-dee]

​@@erikdayne5429I can buy my own glasses, but the VA is supposed to provide them.

[@hiramnoone]

The differences at this point in history though are profound, I think, and irreconcilable. David Mamet in his most recent book may have expressed it best by saying that it's gone beyond disagreement to the point that each side literally believes the other side is crazy.

[@njmadson4951]

This was very well said Chris. Even though I’m a center-left democrat and you’re a center-right republican, I still respect you and your views. Plus I graduated with a BA in history and I respect you even more for not always having a bias when it comes to history.

[@kylewilson2819]

Very well said. For what it's worth, I still remember my school assembly in Oregon talking about Rachel's Challenge. I don't know if it was you or someone else who spoke, but at least with me, your message resonated and continues to resonate. My prayers go out to Corey Comperatore’s family. I cannot even imaging the pain they must be feeling, and I hope that if the country rallies around anything in the next few weeks, it's to help them in their darkest hour.

[@Will-704]

This video exemplifies why people wanted to hear from you. Beautiful words, this country needs unity more than ever.

[@sweetrocks610]

What an insane timeline to be living in, but holy fuck the secret service dropped the ball so hard here. Edit: I seem to have started a war in the replies

[@frankcastle_1984]

This is the story. Footage emerging of bystanders telling police and secret service there was a gunman on the roof and they didn't do anything about it

[@clydefrog203]

I'm not blaming female SS members but I was surprised there were so many. I mean no one hires female bodyguards. Shouldn't secret service agents be maybe taller than 5'7?

[@this_is_patrick]

​@@clydefrog203 As long as you're five feet or taller, height doesn't matter. A fun fact I read once say most members of the US SOFs are on the shorter side of five feet in height. Hell, Audie Murphy was 5'5.

[@carl9654]

​@@clydefrog203I'm no expert on this but I do have a friend who is a SS agent. She's one of the smartest and most physically fit people I know. Perhaps not as strong as her male colleagues, but I have little doubt she has what it takes to do the job.

[@TylerDurden42069]

@@this_is_patrick dam u know ss history that's actually cool as hell can we be friends lol \

[@rocketbaboon56]

18:00 I wanted to say something about the speeches you do for Rachel’s challenge you came to my school last year in New Oxford and that speech you made has had a very positive impact on me and some friends I am close with I wanted to say i appreciate the content and what you do 🙏

[@VloggingThroughHistory]

I've been to New Oxford twice! Always enjoy being there.

[@dappling88]

I am a Christian conservative. At times in the past, I got so wrapped up in politics. Spent all my time, listen to talk radio and watching fox news. I developed a us versus them mentality. But, thankful I developed a more Biblical worldview. My convictions and values haven't changed, but how I express them has. I want to have compassion without compromise and be bold in my convictions without being brazen.

[@jacksond4389]

I wish I hadn’t noticed how close your phone was to falling off the chair

[@VloggingThroughHistory]

It wasn't going anywhere. I used it to control the camera.

[@peka003]

@@VloggingThroughHistory love ya confidence Chris

[@badcornflakes6374]

​@@peka003 Okay

[@jdavis8]

This deserves to be your most viewed video. Wonderful statement.

[@absolutelee1149]

“We’ve lost the ability to disagree with one another” couldn’t agree more and it’s such a powerful line. Great video man and well said

[@sebastianwiedemann326]

Thank you very much for this statement. I have a lot of respect for (and frankly became addicted to) your History-Chanel. The greatest responsability of History is to provide "lessons learned" from past errors in human civilization. We in Europe observe US-Americans become more and more aggressive and divided among themselves. I'm very much on your side, thanks again.

[@Archerfish1977]

My cousins and I are on polar opposite sides of the political spectrum and we know that there is virtually no chance of either of us convincing the other to switch sides, so we’ve mutually agreed to leave politics out of any discussion. We don’t see each other enough as it is, so why should we waste that time arguing. Instead we talk about history and the National Park Service, which are both key interests for all three of us. It keeps the conversation civil and allows us to enjoy our time together.

[@jackruzicka7508]

I lost track of all the “amens” I said to all the points you made. Thank you for being such a peaceful, levelheaded, yet passionate voice to such a sad moment in our history. I pray we can all return to the decency and respect you reverently called us to. God bless America 🙏

[@Super88446]

Much love and appreciation for this channel. Chris is correct to focus on the facts that someone innocent was murdered, this is not unique to any point in time across the world, and we need to prioritize disagreement in a non-destructive way

[@RMilheim90]

Chris, I had this exact same convo with some friends of mine, but you articulated it so much better than I did. Thank you. And I hope people can take your message and emulate it towards others. Light pushes away the darkness

[@Jack10016]

Much respect to you for making this video Chris, we know you aren’t comfortable discussing modern politics but you approach it very sensibly.

[@brianhobaugh]

I live about a half hour from Butler. Been to the fair multiple times. Wild times we’re living in. This nation has to come together. You give me hope for this country, Chris.

[@erikstromblad6735]

Have been watching your channel for years, and basically never comment but this video and what was said is just what I think many people need to hear, maybe all of us need to hear stuff like this from time to time. I really wish more people saw this.

[@samwhary5498]

When I saw your video in the related videos I was a bit surprised, but as I considered it, it made sense to see you make a statement. We've just witnessed history. I'm glad you were willing to speak on the matter with a bit of urging. Thank you for your statement.

[@thore620]

Chris you are such a rolemodel! I admire your calmness and social intelligence. The fact that you are always able to acknowledge both sides and know your own biases, is such a great ability, a lot of people lost nowadays!

[@itsajharlow]

Chris, I love your honesty. Thank you for your thoughts.

[@MbSaidSo]

Common sense input as usual, Chris. Thank you. I hope your struggle with "what could I have done to land the message with this young man." leads you pretty quickly to "nothing..." You have done more than your part to spread common sense and decency. It won't land with everyone. And that is ok.

[@TheDinoBabyYT]

This was very refreshing to listen to. Thank you for taking the time to make this video, I know you were hesitant but its nice to hear a sane point of view

[@isaacmortuus]

this is the kind of video that needs to viral on twitter and not the kind of hateful speech we’ve been seeing

[@dennissprague2572]

Right on, at the end of the day a woman was robbed of her husband and his children now get to spend the rest of their lives without their dad. God have mercy

[@RealUtterNonsense]

Your words are breath of fresh air in a milieu of hatred, conspiracy, and antagonism.

[@jilldesruisseau]

Just had an opportunity to watch this video, and while yes your channel is informative and entertaining, this is 100% the reason I watch your content. You handle things like this so eloquently and with so much respect and just basic common sense and decency. If people really paused to listen to the message, the world would be a much better place. Thanks, Chris.

[@Cheddar_Wizard]

Social media is not a conducive environment for agreement and cooperation unfortunately, and I think that plays a major role considering how much political dialogue takes place online.

[@miekkenr]

Watching old debates and old issues, like you mentioned Barack and John McCain and then also watching Barack and Mitt Romney, the respect between candidates used to be so much better. I wish the respect came back, but I only see it getting worse.

[@antiquealbum]

Imo, I think it is getting worse because of the rise of echo chambers in social media because of the algorithms the social media platforms use. I wish more people would acknowledge it more and remind themselves of this and in turn would ground themselves more and be more level headed. However, it seems like when we get on these platforms we mostly forget about it (heck, including myself) especially when we see and get into political and social arguments.

[@miekkenr]

@@antiquealbum You are very likely correct in many ways there.

[@SpartanArmy117]

I hate to be that guy, but Biden literally said Romney would reinsitute slavery. I agree McCain and Obama were pretty good, but that 2012 campaign is what started the ugliness.

[@crippledlegendx6695]

@@SpartanArmy117 I would hate to be that guy and could very well spend 24 + hours just writing out every nasty thing Trump has said about his opponents too.. but uk i would really hate to be that guy..

[@SpartanArmy117]

@@crippledlegendx6695 Jesus. This is literally everything wrong with this conversation. I don't care what Trump said, he's not innocent in this either. The original comment talked about how previous elections were more tame and I simply pointed out that this has really been going on since Obama's second term. On another note, this is why Trump is popular. I bring up something completely different and it's instantly, "bUt tRuMp!" We're so screwed.

[@damusagi]

Is anyone else getting a note from KZbin thinking this video is about Reagan?

[@icecreamjunkie6790]

Yes! There’s literally a Wikipedia article about the attempted assassination of Trump. WTF KZbin?!

[@sonicknuckles1174]

I just hope nothing terrible happens to either candidate. No one deserves to be killed over being disliked.😔 “For there is still beauty inside this dying world,” Wrath Upon Ourselves; As I Lay Dying.

[@bwildcatboy]

I can not express how thankful I am for your insight on this issue. In a sea of discord and fighting, your ability to keep a level head and convey your perspective on this is incredibly valuable to me personally. I’m no fan of Donald Trump’s but you are spot on, he does not deserve what happened nor did the civilians that were caught in the crossfire. Thank you for discussing this, and thank you for being a part of the online community.

[@tohmano5855]

I appreciate this video so much, I'm so happy that you decided to post this. I think it's important for people to hear this.

[@sergioarnold61]

This is why you're one of my favorite content creators. Compassion and common sense. Great video!

[@randomperson6433]

Congratulations on being so successful that your opinion is demanded! Also props for being diplomatic while sharing your personal opinions. That’s why you’re so respected.

[@ryanweintraub9448]

As a kid, I didn't understand that the present IS history being written. I am now 23 and have lived through a good amount of historical events. The past couple decades are gonna be some *thick* chapters in the history books edit: This is the most sane take I have seen in years about something political. Well said edit x2: I want a candidate to run on what he says at 18:35 to the end

[@greenknightofwar7024]

We truly do live in interesting times.

[@hsgame4088]

​@@greenknightofwar7024I mean we got covid,war in europe for the first time since ww2,and assasination attempt of a US president.

[@f0rth3l0v30fchr15t]

@@greenknightofwar7024 I blame everyone but me.

[@TheUndyingCrystal]

​@greenknightofwar7024 "May you live in interesting times.."

[@icandoallthings5326]

I’m the same age. And yes we are really living through a lot of historical events. My kids and grandkids will definitely be interested in what I have to say about the 2020s.

[@thunderatigervideo]

I’ve taught high school debate for years and one of the key elements there is to disagree spiritedly during a round but then be friends afterward. The trick is to separate yourself from your ideas. You can have very strong ideas, but they aren’t YOU. Someone disparaging your ideas isn’t the same as someone disparaging you. I think we need to learn that as a country. Love your insights and historical context! I keep reminding myself that similar events have happened in history, and it’s nice to see someone more versed in history than I validate that.

[@seanburwell6535]

It is refreshing and reassuring knowing that there are level headed people in this country. Thank you for your insight. Hope all is well with you.

[@ProximaCentauriC]

I have watched you for a couple years Chris and one of the reasons it was great for you to talk about this is because of your grounded, level headed nature and great knowledge of all of American presidential and world history (not just modern American history like most Americans) that unfortunately not enough people have. A lot of what you’ve said felt like it really hit home, because a lot of the rhetoric that people, media, and organizations say on both sides of the political spectrum in my mind is one of the true reasons for the decaying political climate in the U.S., where many people are unable to talk with or be friends with those on the other side of the isle. For many years, I’ve gotten very irritated by the talk that each election could be the end all be all for nearly 250 years of American democracy (while simulatenously never ever specifying how something that dramatic would realistically go down), and it’s honestly something I’ve begun to increasingly see as pretty cruel to the people who listen to that kind of language, especially to those like the shooter whose brain wasn’t even fully developed yet. That kind of language and fearmongering unfortunately culminated into what happened recently and while I’m glad it seems like it’s beginning to finally be confronted now, in all honesty, this is a deep flaw in our culture that should’ve been done away with for a long time now. Thank you for bringing what you’ve said up. I hope that in the future, this country can learn how to heal and have people on the left, right, and center that are willing to hear each other out and not be so easily pitted against each other.

[@andrewniehoff8612]

To quote Ben Franklin; "Passion governs actions and she rarely governs wisely."

[@iTz_Plewtoe]

Thanks for saying this Chris. Love you all.

[@matthewhawthorne8411]

I truly appreciate your will when you try your hardest to be in biased in a time where everyone is supposedly forced to chose a side. No one’s perfect but your effort means a lot to people who care thank you. Keep up the good work

[@ChristinaMBasler]

This is a good video and I’m glad you made it. I don’t agree with a lot of your opinion in other videos, but whenever your videos pop up I always watch them. You seem nice and respectful and I like to here from people I disagree with. Thank you for being a cool guy and condemning violence. So often people look at someone on the other side of their politics and demonize them. You always just state that you disagree with people in a kind way. Much respect for you! Keep doing what you’re doing!

[@JoshuaBurniece]

I am thankful for people like you. Thank you for demonstrating what healthy and compassionate disagreement looks like. You will be a light in many people’s lives.

[@michealboudreaux]

I very much appreciate your view here - this kind of calm, reasonable, and eminently *decent* way of approaching things is often all too lacking.

[@maryloumawson6006]

As a mother of young men, I'm waiting to hear what influenced this 20 y/o, that made him come up with such a heinous plan. Bullying cannot be the only factor. Of course I mourn along with the nation, the husband and father who lost his life, and the victims who are still struggling to survive this horrid incident. But still, as a mother, I can't help feeling sorry for the family of the shooter. It must be a horrible feeling to realize how utterly you failed in your duty to your child, and to your community and society. My prayers are for those people as well. Recently, an in-law lost a family member to suicide, and I have seen the survivor's guilt up close. It is heart-breaking. Please pray for ALL of the victims of this tragic event.

[@sorenpx]

The mainstream media, celebrities, CEOs and academics constantly hammering into his head that "Trump is literally Hitler" and "Trump is a dictator who must be stopped at all costs" probably brainwashed him into thinking that he was doing something heroic and that would die a martyr's death.

[@Commonwealth_Of_Pennsylvania]

I highly doubt it was the family that failed him. I'm a 21 year old man with a somewhat strained relationship with my family over my political views, and I was bullied a lot as a kid. If you ask me, this is just my theory, but I think he just genuinely was radicalized by social media. I've been there. Radicalized on both sides. Never enough to do the unthinkable, but I've been right winger and a leftist. I'd say I'm still a leftist, but you get my point. He was wearing merch of a guntuber. Now that sounds contrary to his actions, as most guntubers are right wing, but I fully believe he was outraged at Trump for publicly disavowing Project 2025. It also might not be. We may never know. What I do know is that I truly don't think we can say his family failed him. Sure, people don't just become monsters, but I highly doubt his family did it to him.

[@maryloumawson6006]

@@Commonwealth_Of_Pennsylvania Since you are but 21, I doubt you understand the onus on a parent to give their child the skills to resist things like bullying, or social media, radicalization etc. I realize that our society has not long had the influence of social media, so it is a fairly new thing to deal with. But people have been being radicalized by different groups for centuries. It's not a new thing however it is encountered. But this young man DID do the unthinkable, and paid the ultimate price. And for that, his family will be doing a lot of soul-searching. I feel for them, and mourn their son's wasted life.

[@Commonwealth_Of_Pennsylvania]

@@maryloumawson6006 I kept going back and forth how to address this. I'll just address it briefly in the interest of doing what both VTH and President Biden said. To stay calm. 1. Little belittling to assume I couldn't have an idea on a parent's duty to their child, purely based on my age. You're correct that I'm not a parent, but I also am going into a career that requires me to work with children. I am actively studying to be a history teacher. 2. See the point above. I am actively studying history. I know radicalization isn't new. 3. My main point is something that you, with all due respect, seem to have missed, or maybe I miscommunicated. My point is that jumping to "His parents failed him" simply helps no one. I've seen his father speak on it. He's devastated. I mean, he lost his kid after that same kid became a monster. You could make the argument that his dad failed him, sure. However, that robs Thomas of agency, which he had. We blame John Wilkes Booth for Lincoln's death. We don't blame his parents, y'know? 4. This is one I just want you to look into. I mean obviously you're a free woman. You can do as you please, but just hear me out. Look up a game called "We Become What We Behold." I know it's cliche for someone my age to say "look at a video game," but I swear, this has a point. The game is about how modern day social media and news networks actively radicalize people in much more effective ways than before. 5. Ultimately, I don't expect you to change your mind. I really don't. I don't wish for a fight either. Again, like VTH, President Biden, Habitual Linecrosser, and so many others have said, America needs to come together. So I wish you a good day. I wish your sons well, too.

[@maryloumawson6006]

@@Commonwealth_Of_Pennsylvania I meant only to sympathize with the parents of this poor, misguided young man. Not to hold them culpable. They lost their son, but no one is mourning him. It is very sad, IMHO, for them, for him, and for his victims. I specifically said that I'm speaking as a mother; this is every parent's nightmare.

[@andrewlyon3597]

I genuinely hope that you never come to a point where you shy away from giving your opinion. I think your voice is the kind that is needed in times like these, and as divided as we may seem as a country, I truly believe most people think rationally but are scared to share their thoughts on the current political or social climate because they’re afraid of being ostracized by their social circle or being negatively affected in their professional career. I feel the loud minorities on both sides have amplified the existing issues surrounding civil discourse over the past several years.

[@brettsinclair8046]

Thank you for these wise words. I hope at least a few people will listen and act accordingly. We need to come together again, even when we have our different opinions.