Oregon, Washington lawmakers denounce suspected assassination attempt of Trump at rally

(KPTV) – After Donald Trump appeared to be the target of an assassination attempt as he spoke during a rally in Pennsylvania according to investigators, state and federal lawmakers for Oregon and Washington released statements.

The local lawmakers denounced a rise in political violence.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek posted on X (formerly Twitter) that violence is never acceptable:

“Our country is better than this,” Kotek wrote. “Thankful that the former president is recovering and grateful to all those on the front line that responded quickly.”

Washington Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-3) released a statement that reads:

“I am praying for the health and safety of former President Donald Trump and everyone else in Butler, and I hope the perpetrator of this heinous act is swiftly apprehended by law enforcement,” Gluesenkamp Perez said. “There is no room in America for political violence of any kind, against anyone, for any reason.”

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Oregon Representative Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-5) said:

“Like so many Oregonians and Americans, I’m devastated and deeply troubled by the senseless act of violence that caused innocent blood to be spilled in Pennsylvania today. Political violence in all forms is reprehensible and uniquely unAmerican. I’m grateful to everyone who responded swiftly to protect President Trump and those in attendance, and I will continue praying for the safety of our nation and mourn this horrifying tragedy.”

Leaders of the Oregon State House and Senate also released statements:

House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich (Hood River) called for Democratic politicians to denounce the act of violence.

“Our prayers are with President Trump. Democrats not only need to denounce this despicable act of violence, they must also consider how their over-the-top partisan rhetoric about fake “threats to democracy” have contributed to this. We settle disputes in this country with our votes, not violence.”

Senate Republican Leader Daniel Bonham (The Dalles) said violence has no place in America’s politics and called for everyone to condemn the attack.

“Let us honor our commitment to preserving the integrity of our republic and ensure it remains a beacon of freedom and justice for all. As Americans, we must stand united against any form of violence or intimidation,” he said. “We extend our prayers to President Trump and his loved ones during this difficult time. We also offer our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the families of those who lost their lives in this heinous attack.”

In the Portland metro area, the Washington County Republican Party released a statement that reads in part:

“… We are grateful for the quick actions of law enforcement and first responders which prevented further harm. We pray for and stand in solidarity with President Trump and his family, and with the other victims and their families,” the Wash. Co. GOP said. “We pray for civility to return to our land. May God have mercy on our beloved nation – the United States of America.”

President Biden also gave a short statement on Saturday afternoon, saying he is relieved that Trump is reportedly “doing well” and he hopes to speak with his 2024 presidential rival soon.

“There’s no place in America for this type of violence,” Biden said. “It’s sick. It’s sick.”

Biden said he was waiting for additional information before formally calling the attack an attempted assassination.

“I have an opinion, but I don’t have any facts,” he told reporters, pledging to provide updates as he learns more.

The president also pledged to update the public later on whether they speak as well as additional details about the investigation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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