Donald Trump assassination bid: Joe Biden and Kamala Harris react to shooting

US President Joe Biden has reacted for the first time post the alleged assassination attempt against his predecessor, Donald Trump, for the second time in as many months. Biden took to X (formerly Twitter) and condemned the shooting while apprising about the status of the case.

The Democrat said he was 'relieved' that Trump was unharmed in the incident whilst adding that the law enforcement agencies were conducting the investigation.

"There is no place for political violence or for any violence ever in our country," said Biden.

"A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their vigilance and their efforts to keep the former President and those around him safe," Biden added.

"I have directed my team to continue to ensure that the Secret Service has every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure the former President’s continued safety."

I have been briefed by my team regarding what federal law enforcement is investigating as a possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today.

A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their…

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris, who squared off against Trump a few days ago in the presidential debate in Pennsylvania, said 'political violence' hadnoplace in the USA.

"I have been briefed on reports of gunshots fired near former President Trump and his property in Florida, and I am glad he is safe. Violence has no place in America."

I have been briefed on reports of gunshots fired near former President Trump and his property in Florida, and I am glad he is safe. Violence has no place in America.

What happened?

Taking a break from the rigours of the canvassing trail, Trump was playing golf at theTrump International Golf Club, in West Palm Beach, Florida, not far from his Mar-a-Lago residence when the incident transpired.

The suspect, identified as Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, armed with an AK-47 and sniper scope, came within a few hundred yards of Trump's vicinity.

Secret Service agents engaged the gunman and fired at least four rounds of ammunition around 1:30 pm (1730 GMT).

Routh attempted to flee the scene but was quickly nabbed and taken into custody. Further interrogations are currently underway.

(With inputs from agencies)