To speculate that the world might be better if Trump had not survived is to sink to his level

To wish anyone dead is an inhumane thought, but the question must have popped into some minds: Would it have been better for America, for the planet, for humanity, if the assassin’s work had been completed?

Donald Trump is rushed offstage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Picture: Anna Moneymaker/Getty

The attempted assassination of Donald Trump is capable of touching the darkest recesses of some minds.

On one level there is shock, as there would be for any violent attempt on the life of a public figure.