Written by Mary Roberts.

A recent BlackRock advertisement from 2023 has ignited controversy after it emerged that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old assailant who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, was featured in it. The investment giant confirmed that the ad, filmed at Bethel Park High School where Crooks was a student, has since been pulled following the tragic events.

BlackRock, known for its significant influence in the financial sector and ties to the Biden administration through former executives and employees, faced immediate backlash for its association with Crooks. Investigative reporter Laura Loomer brought attention to the ad and its connection to the shooter, highlighting the unexpected overlap between the advertisement and the violent incident.

Connections and Concerns

The revelation of Crooks’ involvement in the ad has raised questions about oversight and responsibility in advertising campaigns involving young individuals. The ad, initially meant to showcase students from Bethel Park High School, inadvertently linked BlackRock to a tragic event. Critics argue that such associations undermine corporate responsibility and raise ethical concerns about the use of individuals in promotional materials.

In a twist of fate, the familial connection between Joe Biden’s advisor, Michael C. Donilon, and Thomas E. Donilon, chairman of the BlackRock Investment Institute, has added another layer of scrutiny. This connection underscores the intertwined relationships between influential figures in politics and finance, further complicating the fallout from the shooting incident.

Impact and Public Perception

The aftermath of the shooting, which resulted in fatalities and injuries, has left a profound impact on public discourse surrounding security at political events and the ethical boundaries of corporate advertising. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and sometimes tragic consequences of political extremism and the challenges faced by companies navigating their public image in a polarized climate.

Our Take

The use of Thomas Matthew Crooks in a BlackRock advertisement, followed by his violent actions, highlights a troubling lapse in judgment and oversight by the investment giant. Associating the shooter with a promotional campaign inadvertently glorified his presence, overshadowing the intended message of the ad. Such incidents underscore the need for stricter ethical guidelines in advertising and corporate responsibility. The public deserves transparency and accountability from companies like BlackRock, especially when their actions inadvertently intersect with tragic events.