The image of Donald Trump with a bloody face, raising a victory fist in the air, as the Secret Service closes in around him, with the American flag fluttering in the background, has become iconic and arguably played a significant role in deciding the election.

For those of us who have been following Donald Trump since the beginning of his political career, this image symbolizes why his supporters admire him. Once considered a reality star, Trump defied the odds and won the election.

Following the controversial events of January 6, 2021, where Trump urged his supporters to “fight the hell out of it,” leading to a violent attack on Congress, he faced backlash and refused to accept the election results. Many Republicans distanced themselves from him, and few believed he would return to Washington.

Despite the tumultuous events of 2021, the upcoming 2024 election seems likely to surpass all previous records, with trials and convictions against Trump and a challenging debate stage for Joe Biden.

Just when it seemed things couldn’t get more intense, there was an assassination attempt on Trump. His immediate response, urging the crowd to “fight, fight, fight,” showcased his unique ability to turn adversity into success.

The attack occurred just before the Republican National Convention in Wisconsin, where Trump is expected to be confirmed as the party’s presidential nominee.

Trump’s allies have presented him as a political martyr, portraying him as an ultimate survivor who fought through criminal charges for the past two years. This narrative has gained significant traction, with Mike Johnson, the Republican speaker of the House of Representatives, claiming that Trump is “invincible.”

With the 2024 election looming, the gunshot may have already had a significant impact, as many Americans seem to prefer a strong, resilient leader over a frail old man stumbling over his words. Trump emerges as a leader who embodies strength and determination against all odds.

There is, however, a more troubling context to it all. The attempted assassination of Donald Trump is a concerning event that we must view within the broader context of increasing dehumanization and the use of harsh rhetoric toward political opponents. This trend is not limited to the USA but is becoming more prevalent in other countries. It is a troubling development, and we all need to reflect on our actions and consider the impact of our words and behaviors, even when we believe we are standing up for democracy and tolerance.