A 24-year-old Kansas man is facing federal charges after allegedly threatening to shoot President Trump and scouting rooftops in the days leading up to the president's rally in the Wichita area.
Jaden J. Read was taken into custody Saturday and charged with making threats against the president, according to the Justice Department. The charges stem from a series of Facebook comments posted in response to local news coverage of Trump's planned visit.
In one comment, Read wrote: “Let's shoot Trump honestly, where's our shooter? I'm tired of living this money life.” He followed up with another post: “I just got a 308 and 305 round and I'm killing this pedo.”
Under a separate article from another local outlet, Read wrote: “Can we shoot him in Kansas please I will myself.” He then added, “IK where your speech will be. Already mapped out roofs around. Finna get kirked since yall couldn't help him,” a reference to the late conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot during a campus debate.
The president's trip to Kansas was part of a broader push to boost Senator Roger Marshall, whose reelection race against Democrat Adam Hamilton has become unexpectedly competitive in a state that typically votes solidly Republican.
Federal prosecutors emphasized that threats of political violence will not be tolerated. “The First Amendment allows for robust disagreement but there are constraints,” U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser said in a statement Monday. “I caution people to stay within the bounds of constitutionally protected speech.”
Read remains in federal custody pending a detention hearing. The case highlights the heightened security concerns that have accompanied recent political rallies, as authorities work to prevent any potential attacks.
The rally itself was marked by several interruptions from protesters within the first five minutes, and a growing number of demonstrators gathered outside the venue throughout the day, according to local reports.
This incident comes amid ongoing debates over political rhetoric and safety, with officials urging the public to report suspicious activity. The investigation into Read's posts is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the legal process unfolds.
