Sheriffs across Central Florida condemned the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump, which occurred Saturday evening during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Several hours after the shooting incident, Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma, Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez, and Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood released statements on social media condemning the violence.
“Regardless of one’s political beliefs, it is vital to recognize that the actions we saw unfold this evening in Pennsylvania against Former President Donald Trump are utterly indefensible and have no place in a civilized and democratic society,” stated Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma in a social media post.
“Violence is never an acceptable means of expressing disagreement or discontent in politics or practices. I am thankful for the swift action of a brave Secret Service team, who quickly put their lives in danger; just as their oath calls for them to do,” added Sheriff Lemma.
At the conclusion of Sheriff Lemma’s statement, he said that the nation “must continue to value the rule of law and the safety of all individuals – whether we agree with their political positions or not. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of civility and respect for democratic processes in our nation. God bless our great nation through this scary and dark time in history.”
On social media, Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez shared his thoughts on the assassination attempt that not only injured Trump but also left one rally attendee dead and two others seriously wounded.
“Political violence is never acceptable, I pray for the recovery of the 45th United States President Donald J. Trump and anyone injured at today’s shooting in Pennsylvania,” stated Sheriff Lopez on Saturday evening.
Sheriff Lopez continued by stating, “I mourn the person who is reported to have been killed and I offer praise and solidarity with the law enforcement and secret service officials who performed their duties with honor and rushed to protect everyone at the event including the former President. This is a time for all of us to reflect on the need for a peaceful democracy.”
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood also released a statement following the assassination attempt at the former president’s rally.
“Whatever your political or personal views, we cannot live in a society where political violence is tolerated,” stated Sheriff Chitwood. “The temperature of our politics is high, and it takes courage to step into the arena and run for public office. Threats have almost become commonplace. I fear for our country’s future if we allow violence and intimidation to take hold.”
At the conclusion of the social media post, Sheriff Chitwood stated that he is “saying a prayer for former President Trump, the family of the innocent victim killed in the shooting, and ALL those running to serve the American people. I will be praying that God places a shield of protection around everyone who enters the arena to represent a cause larger than themselves.”