In a recent rally held in St. Cloud, Minnesota, former President Donald Trump commended a female Secret Service agent who defended him during an assassination attempt, despite facing significant backlash over her physical stature. The incident, which took place on July 13, saw the agent coming under scrutiny, with critics questioning her ability to protect the 6-foot-3 ex-president.

"There was great bravery displayed... Every one of them. There wasn't one that was slow," Trump told the rally attendees. "There was a woman to my right shielding me. A beautiful person. She was shielding me with everything she could."

Trump's praise for the agent was clear as he continued, "She got criticized by the fake news because she wasn't tall enough. She was criticized and she was so brave. She was shielding me with everything. She wanted to take a bullet," his remarks eliciting cheers from the crowd.

The female agent's dedication during the life-threatening event has been widely acknowledged within the Secret Service, but her height became a focal point of criticism. Among the critics was tech billionaire Elon Musk, who took to social media to voice his concerns. On July 15, Musk tweeted: "Having a small person as body cover for a large man is like an undersized Speedo at the beach - doesn't cover the subject. Could be a man or a woman, to be clear, just needs to be large enough to do the job."

The assassination attempt occurred during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old nursing home kitchen worker from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, opened fire with an AR-style rifle. The attack resulted in the death of former fire chief Corey Comperator, with two others injured. Crooks was subsequently shot dead by a Secret Service sniper on the scene.

The tragic incident has sparked a broader debate about the qualifications and physical requirements of Secret Service agents. Despite the criticism, Trump's defense of the female agent highlights the bravery and commitment of those tasked with protecting public figures.

The backlash against the agent has raised questions about societal expectations and standards for those in protective roles. While some argue that physical stature should be a primary consideration, others emphasize the importance of training, skill, and dedication. The former president's remarks underscore the latter, praising the agent's willingness to put her life on the line.

Trump's comments in St. Cloud are part of a broader narrative he has maintained regarding his appreciation for the Secret Service. "Every one of them. There wasn't one that was slow," he reiterated, expressing his gratitude for the quick and decisive actions taken by his security detail during the attack.

This incident also sheds light on the unique challenges faced by female agents in a male-dominated field. Despite the criticisms, the agent's actions during the assassination attempt have been recognized as a testament to her professionalism and bravery. The scrutiny over her physical capabilities has sparked a necessary conversation about the criteria used to evaluate those in protective services.

The assassination attempt on July 13 adds to a series of security threats that Trump has faced throughout his political career. The response from his security detail in Butler, Pennsylvania, serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required in protecting high-profile figures.