New York officials react after apparent Trump assassination attempt

New York’s elected officials are expressing concern over political violence following an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on Sunday.

The FBI said there was an apparent attempt on the GOP presidential nominee’s life at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Fla.

The incident came just nine weeks after Trump was wounded by an assassin’s bullet during an outdoor rally in Pennsylvania.

The Associated Press reported that the Secret Service opened fire on a man who was spotted with a rifle as Trump was golfing.

Trump was not injured and the shooter fled and was later captured. He was identified as Ryan Wesley Routh.

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (DN.Y.) applauded the quick actions of the Secret Service.

I was just briefed by the Acting Director of the Secret Service. I applaud the Secret Service for their quick response to ensure former President Trump’s safety.

There is no place in this country for political violence of any kind. The perpetrator must be prosecuted to the…

— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) September 15, 2024

Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul said that she was relieved that Trump was safe.

Grateful to law enforcement for their speedy response, and relieved the former president is safe after the incident at his golf course earlier today.

Violence of any form is totally unacceptable — we must settle our differences with civility and respect.

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) September 15, 2024

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/South Brooklyn) said that Trump should have the same level of security as President Joe Biden.

Another assassination attempt on President Trump today by someone hiding in the bushes at Trump International Golf Club with a rifle and scope. Fortunately, another tragedy was warned & the suspect is in custody. Great job by law enforcement but as election nears, he should have…

—Office of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (@RepMalliotakis) September 15, 2024

Democratic Attorney General Letitia James said that political violence cannot be accepted or normalized.

Political violence, in any form, cannot be accepted or normalized in this country.

— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) September 15, 2024

Democratic Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Minority Leader, also spoke out against political violence.

Political violence has no place in a democratic society.

— Hakeem Jeffries (@RepJeffries) September 15, 2024

GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik wondered how a potential assassin was able to get so close to Trump.

Other New York officials also posted comments in the wake of the apparent assassination attempt.

There is no place for political violence in our nation. Grateful to hear that the former president was not harmed during the attempted assassination this weekend & for the swift response from law enforcement.

I strongly condemn these acts & the hateful rhetoric that fuels them.

— Grace Meng (@RepGraceMeng) September 16, 2024

All major presidential candidates ought to receive the highest level of presidential protection. Anything less than maximum protection is a self-inflicted wound that puts our Nation’s stability at grave risk. pic.twitter.com/05FfqJmso4

— Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) September 16, 2024

Political violence has no place in the United States.

I’m grateful Former President Trump was unharmed in this incident, and I’m grateful that the alleged perpetrator is now in custody.

My thoughts are with Mr. Trump and his family in the aftermath of this traumatic experience.

— Yvette D. Clarke (@RepYvetteClarke) September 16, 2024

Political violence should never be tolerated whether you are a Democrat, Republican or Independent.

— Adriano Espaillat (@RepEspaillat) September 15, 2024

I am relieved to hear that President Trump is safe. This cannot keep happening. It not only puts him in danger, but it imperils our Republic. https://t.co/qk6pc91ry6

— Council Member David Carr (@CMDMCarr) September 15, 2024

President Biden also expressed relief that Trump was unharmed and commended the work of the Secret Service.

I have been briefed by my team regarding what federal law enforcement is investigating as a possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today.

A suspect is in custody, and I commend the work of the Secret Service and their law enforcement partners for their…

— President Biden (@POTUS) September 16, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris, who is running against Trump for the White House, said that she was disturbed about the apparent assassination attempt and condemned political violence.

I am deeply disturbed by the possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today. As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more to violence.

Read my statement: pic.twitter.com/JcuKJPHYdA

— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) September 16, 2024