Sara Jane Moore sought to assassinate U.S. President Gerald Ford on September 22, 1975, during an appearance at the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. This incident unfolded just weeks after another assassination attempt on Ford by Lynette 'Squeaky' Fromme, a member of the Manson Family, which had previously escalated concerns regarding the safety of the president. Moore, who had been inspired by various political motivations, approached Ford as he was leaving the hotel after delivering a speech. Armed with a .38 caliber revolver, she fired a single shot aimed at the president.

The events of that day showcased the protective instincts of those in the vicinity, particularly a bystander named Oliver Sipple, a former marine, who instinctively tackled Moore after she fired her weapon, effectively preventing any further shots from being taken. His quick response not only saved Ford's life but also drew attention to the potential vulnerability of high-profile figures in public settings. Following this, the Secret Service faced scrutiny for their security strategies and protocols, leading to a fundamental overhaul in how they protected the president.

Moore's motives stemmed from a mix of political disillusionment, feminism, and a desire for notoriety, as she later stated that she contemplated the act to further a message rather than for personal gain. In the aftermath, she was arrested, charged, and ultimately convicted of attempted murder, receiving a life sentence. This episode contributed to the growing awareness of the dangers facing public officials and the increasing need for heightened security measures in American politics.