Western Reader
Investment giant BlackRock has decided to withdraw a controversial advertisement after it was revealed that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the individual responsible for the recent shooting incident at a Trump rally, appeared in the ad.
The incident occurred during a rally near Pittsburgh, resulting in former President Donald Trump being injured and an attendee losing their life.
Good morning, today is day 3 of asking why Kimberly Cheatle, the Director of the Secret Service hasn’t resigned yet after her massive failure and gross incompetence. pic.com/NoHSiSE1P0
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) July 15, 2024
BlackRock confirmed that Crooks, a former student at Bethel Park High School, briefly appeared in a 2022 commercial alongside a teacher from the same school.
The video quickly circulated on social media but has since been taken down. BlackRock expressed strong condemnation of the violent act and reiterated its dedication to fostering civility and unity in a statement.
Stunning. On this uniquely impactful morning, #MSNBC pulls its signature show #MorningJoe, due to concerns about potential inappropriate comments by a panelist. A controversial but perhaps prudent decision on their part. pic.com/JqqDSGfz9f
— Mark Davis (@MarkDavis) July 15, 2024
As a major investor in gun manufacturers like Sturm Ruger and Smith & Wesson, BlackRock emphasized its stand against political violence.
The company has fully assisted authorities by providing all relevant video footage from the advertisement.
The shooting incident has triggered widespread reactions and calls for heightened security measures at political gatherings, further fueling the debate on gun control and political violence in the United States.
On another note, BlackRock revealed record assets under management, reaching $10.6 trillion in their latest quarterly earnings report, showcasing the firm’s significant influence in the financial industry.
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