The world was stunned by the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump, who was grazed on the ear by a bullet during a campaign speech in Butler, Pa. A bleeding Trump raised his fist defiantly as Secret Service agents escorted him off the stage as thousands of rally attendees screamed support for the Republican front runner.
Local officials reacted with concern for the 45th president and expressed outrage that an assailant would try to take him out of the race against the faltering Joe Biden by trying to kill him.
“This is an incredible moment in American history that shows just how far someone will actually go to keep Donald Trump from returning to the White House,” said state Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano in a post minutes after the shooting. “It looks like President Trump is ok; our prayers are with him.”
“In our democracy we settle disputes at the ballot box,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico. “Today’s sickening events do not define who we are as Americans, and we should all pray for a full recovery for our former President, regardless of political ideology.”
“Hatred and acts of violence toward an elected official or candidate for office regardless of political affiliation have no place in this country,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. “As Americans, we stand united on the principles that make our country strong. While there are no reported threats in Suffolk County at this time, my office will continue to monitor the situation.”
“Last week, President Biden stated in a speech that it is ‘time to put Trump in a bullseye.’ We as leaders must watch our words as some feel it's a license to act. I am praying for President Trump and all the victims at this time,” noted Legislator Leslie Kennedy.
“Whether or not you support President Trump in the next election, his resiliency is undeniable,” stated Congressman Nick LaLota. “Despite being demonized and compared to Hitler by his opponents, and facing attempts to remove him from the ballot, he has persevered. Even amid ongoing legal battles and efforts to imprison him, he continues to press forward. Last night, after being shot and knocked down, he got back up within a minute, pumping his fist in the air and pledging to continue the fight. Even his critics must acknowledge Trump's determination.”
“Horrified and angry to see President Trump shot at a campaign rally,” Assemblyman Doug Smith commented. “We pray that he recovers and that his attacker is brought to justice.”
“This is absolutely despicable. I truly hope that president Trump is not badly hurt,” said state Senator Alexis Weik. “May God Bless and protect him.”
"This is both terrible and frightening,” state Senator Dean Murray said. “I'm certainly praying that President Trump is okay and will continue to be okay."
“I'm glad to hear that President Trump is reported safe following this horrendous act of political violence,” Rep. Andrew Garbarino posted. “Praying for him and those in the crowd tonight and I thank secret service for their quick response to the attack.”
” Violence has no place in the United States, where free speech is paramount,” said Sheriff Errol Toulon. “The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office condemns today’s shooting in Pennsylvania and hopes for former President Trump’s speedy recovery.”
“Praying for President Donald Trump and everyone at his rally in Pennsylvania,” state Senator Mario Mattera said. “Today's attack is an attack on democracy and should be roundly denounced by all regardless of party. Violence should never be allowed to intimidate discourse and we must all stand up united against this action. My thoughts are with President Trump, the innocent attendee that was killed and those injured in this selfish act. God bless all involved and God bless the United States of America!”
“Praying for President Trump and all supporters in Pennsylvania,” Rep. Anthony D’Esposito posted. “Grateful for my law enforcement brothers and sisters who ran towards danger.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Former President Donald J. Trump,” said Jesse Garcia, Chairman of the Suffolk County Republican Party. “Donald Trump thrust his fist in the air, bleeding from what appeared to be his ear, as a show of strength on behalf of our nation and our democratic process. Violence or hate will not defeat the spirit and values of the United States of America or Donald Trump. This is a democracy, a free country, and no one should ever be the target of violence. This is not about politics; this is about our republic and our American way of life,” the GOP Chairman stated. “We must stand together as a nation and not allow our democracy to be compromised by those who seek to instill fear to affect change.” He continued: “Today, we also witnessed the efficient professionalism of the Secret Service, as well as all law enforcement and first responders. We thank them for their ongoing service in Pennsylvania, the streets of Suffolk, and neighborhoods throughout America. The Suffolk County GOP and the rest of the country condemn this act and stand united to protect our country and President Trump.”
“Our prayers are with the President. Democracy is at stake, above all else. We are better than this, and hopefully we can transcend the acrimony,” wrote John Kennedy, the Suffolk County Comptroller.
“Thankfully former President Donald Trump is safe and doing well after this horrific incident,” said former Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “This is a terrible day for our country, but hopefully will serve as a reminder that in America we resolve our differences peacefully through our political process and never through violence.”
Suffolk Legislator Rob Trotta added: “It’s a sad state of affairs if this is what our country has come to.”