A major British paper did what most U.S. outlets won’t, naming Trump in a tough story without sugarcoating the truth.
The Telegraph reported that the Michigan church shooter, Thomas Jacob Sanford, drove his truck into a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township during Sunday service and opened fire on worshippers. Police shot and killed him at the scene. Four people were killed and eight were hurt.
What got people’s attention is that the Telegraph also noted Sanford’s past support for Trump. The report didn’t shy away from that detail — a rare move, since many U.S. outlets avoid tying violence to political leanings when Trump is involved.
The attack stunned the community. According to reports, Sanford drove his truck into the church during a Sunday service, then walked inside to shoot people. He also set parts of the church on fire. Police arrived quickly and engaged him in a shootout.
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He was a former Marine who served in Iraq. Neighbors said he had struggled after his service and posted strong political views online. Some accounts showed he had displayed a Trump sign and praised Trump policies.
After the attack, Trump responded on Truth Social, calling it “yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America.” He also urged that “THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!”
For many Americans, the difference between the UK paper’s blunt reporting and the softer approach of U.S. media was hard to miss. Some praised the Telegraph for being honest and not avoiding the uncomfortable part of the story.
MAGA now hates Mormons, in addition to women, blacks, Hispanics , immigrants, lgbtq, Muslim, Buddhists, Hindus, colleges, newspapers, free speech, history, etc. they hate everyone.
— BevMarie 🪷 (@evenbev) September 29, 2025
This attack is part of a larger concern about political rhetoric and extreme behavior. With past events tied to violent acts by people inspired by political figures or ideologies, many see it as dangerous when media or leaders tiptoe around responsibility.
In fact, the Telegraph’s daring coverage may prompt U.S. outlets to follow more boldly. But that depends on whether newsrooms are willing to risk backlash.
Featured image via X screengrab
