Was Thomas Sanford an ardent Trump supporter? What we know about Michigan Church shooter's political affiliation
Posted on: Sep 29, 2025 17:15 IST | Posted by: Hindustantimes
Thomas Jacob Sanford has been identified as a suspect in the shooting at the Grand Blanc Church. Sanford crashed his car into a Grand Blanc church and started shooting before the structure caught fire. At least four people have been killed and eight injured in the incident.
Sanford tried to escape the scene but was shot and murdered by police.
The assault coincides with a troubling trend of violence against religious groups in the US, such as the recent mass shooting at Minneapolis's Annunciation Catholic School, which left two children dead and 17 others wounded.
It also takes place against the backdrop of heightened tensions in America and concerns about political violence following Charlie Kirk's shooting.
Authorities have not yet revealed the reason behind the assault, and Michigan State Police stated at a news conference on Sunday night that theories on Sanford's motivations are “exactly what it is—a speculation,” adding that they won't reach such conclusions for “some time.”
However, some people on social media are drawing the hasty conclusion that Sanford was a Trump supporter.
Sanford did not belong to any political party, according to public records. In a picture posted in September 2019, Sanford can be seen sporting a Trump 2020 T-shirt that reads, “Make Liberals Cry Again.”
The cartoon-style tee, which can be purchased at $15.95 on eBay, features Trump with his fist up with the phrase, ‘Re-elect Trump 2020.’
Also Read: Grand Blanc Church shooter motive: Trump drops bombshell claim on suspect amid massive fire
His wife and both of his parents also frequently posted pro-Trump content on their social media accounts.
Sanford resided in a house on Burton, Michigan's 4100 block of East Atherton Road, according to records. A Trump sign is visible outside the suspect's house in this June 2025 Google Maps image. Numerous media sites have covered the billboard, which has stoked conjecture on social media over Sanford's political views.
Sanford's wife, Tella Sanford, posted a link along with the hashtags “#bringtrumpback” and “#whovotedforthis” on Facebook on May 12, 2021. The post has been removed.
Sanford was a veteran of the Iraq War, CNN reported, adding that he was a sergeant throughout his 2004–2008 duty and was given many awards.
Social media images of Sanford posing with deer indicate that he was a hunter.
While the confluence of these facts has led to conjecture that Sanford is a Trump supporter, none of this provides evidence of his potential political inclinations.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.