Backlash Erupts Over King’s Trump Rally Remark

On Saturday, author Stephen King ignited controversy after posting a comment about the shooting at a Donald Trump rally near Butler, Pennsylvania. The incident left the former president injured, one attendee dead, and two others seriously wounded, according to a Secret Service spokesperson.

King referenced the weapon used in the attack, stating: "An AR-15 style semiautomatic rifle was used in the Butler shooting. These are the guns the Republican Party — and Trump — want to protect."

The post quickly went viral, amassing over 780,000 views and a flood of responses. One user rebuked King, saying: "For a fiction writer, Stephen King knows little about this subject. Stay your fictional lane."

Known for his horror novels and outspoken political views, King has often shared his thoughts on Trump's influence on American politics. He has criticized Supreme Court decisions relating to Trump, alleging that some justices consider Trump to be "above the law."

"Trump's cronies are planning what amounts to a fascist state, and the Supreme Court is clearing the way for them. This should concern conservatives as well as liberals." King posted on X earlier in July.

King's long-standing criticism of Trump dates back to 2016, when he joined 450 writers in signing an open letter against Trump's candidacy. His latest comment about the AR-15 used in the alleged assassination attempt has provoked strong reactions on social media.

"You and the hateful rhetoric you spread every day contributed to what happened yesterday. You are part of the problem in this country," one user commented.

Another user responded: "The ignorance contained in this post disqualifies you from further participation in public discourse on this matter. The right of free speech enables you to continue. And the ignorance of your audience empowers you. God help us all."

"Sit this one out, Mr. King. You're out of your element here," said another comment.

Newsweek reached out to King through his website on Sunday for comment.

Stephen King once said, "Fiction is the truth inside the lie." This sentiment seems to resonate through the outrage his comment has sparked, as the line between fiction and reality continues to blur in the contentious landscape of American politics.