'Violence is never OK': RI political figures decry shooting at Trump rally

Rhode Island political figures swiftly decried the shooting that erupted at former President Donald Trump's Saturday rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, causing a bloodied Trump to be rushed from the stage and leaving the shooter and at least one rally attendee dead. Here are statements released via email or posted on the social media platform X:

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed:

“We don’t have all the information about this situation but political violence is unacceptable and never the answer. It appears former President Trump will make a full recovery. We are glad he is safe. More facts will come out and whoever did this must be held accountable.”

U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse:

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in a democracy. As we wait to learn more about what happened, I wish the former president a fast recovery and appreciate law enforcement’s quick response. I will be keeping the victims and their families in my prayers."

U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo:

"As details become clearer about the shooting at former President Trump’s rally, one thing that is, and will always be, certain – political violence is as reprehensible as it is un-American. Thank you to law enforcement for their ongoing response to this incident."

U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner:

"There is no place for political violence of any kind in America, and I condemn whoever is responsible for this attack. I urge everyone to remain calm."

RI Republican Party Chairman Joe Powers:

"The relentless attacks on President Trump have reached a new and horrifying low with this recent attempt on his life. They have impeached him, indicted him, and tried to jail him. Now, they have resorted to an attempted assassination. It makes you want to ask, what are they so afraid of? We are all praying for President Trump, his family, and everyone involved. This is a critical moment for our nation, and we must stand united against such acts of violence and intimidation."

Gov. Dan McKee:

“Political violence of any kind is abhorrent and inexcusable. Praying for the safety of former President Trump and all those at the rally in Pennsylvania today."

Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos:

"Violence is never OK. My thoughts and prayers are with all those involved in this horrific incident. Glad to know the former president is safe."

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo:

"My thoughts are with former President Trump and those impacted — and I'm grateful for the swift response from Secret Service."

State Rep. and Republican U.S. Senate candidate Patricia Morgan:

“I am filled with sadness and alarm, that our country is descending into this chaos. Thank God President Trump is okay. I pray the people behind him escaped harm and for our country."

Kenneth Naylor, chairman of the Rhode Island Young Republicans:

"I'm sorry but whatever candidate you supported in the primaries, whatever party you support, Trump or Biden this is utterly unacceptable. I pray for better days."

Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore:

"Political violence is unacceptable. Threats of political violence are unacceptable. Americans have strong political disagreements but elections are the means to determine who will govern. The ballot, not the bullet, is how a republic of civilized people choose their leadership."

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI political figures decry violence at Donald Trump rally