The 76th Annual Butler Farm Show began on Monday in the same field where an assassination attempt on former President Trump occurred just over three weeks ago. Vendors and organizers were busy setting up for the event, which runs from Aug. 5-10, while law enforcement presence had decreased since the incident.
Ken Laughlin, president of the Butler Farm Show, expressed sadness over the shooting that took place, resulting in the loss of a life and injuries to several individuals. Despite the lingering impact of the event, Laughlin and other organizers are eager to start the festival and return to normalcy.
Security measures have been heightened for the Farm Show, with additional assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police. Organizers are also cooperating with the FBI’s investigation into the assassination attempt and are focused on healing and moving forward as a community.
A public vigil was held on the grounds to cleanse and reclaim the farm show grounds for its intended purpose. The event aims to highlight the area’s agricultural heritage, without any political bias, despite the presence of kiosks from both major political parties.
Pennsylvania has a strong tradition of celebrating its agricultural roots through local events and large-scale fairs organized by the Department of Agriculture. Trump recently hosted an indoor event at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, reflecting on his past appearance in Butler.
In Butler, fairground rides opened at 4 p.m. on Monday, with a schedule that includes various competitions and activities throughout the week. The community is coming together to support the Farm Show and embrace its agricultural traditions in the wake of recent events.
