Alaskans react to attempted assassination of former President Trump

The country continues to grapple with the aftermath of the shooting during a rally for former President Donald Trump on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump suffered an upper ear injury but was otherwise unharmed. The other victims include Corey Comperatore, a volunteer fire chief who died while trying to protect his family during the attempted assassination. Two others were injured were David Dutch and James Copenhaver. The shooter, later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was also killed.

Matanuska-Susitna Borough Mayor Edna DeVries said, “I am very thankful to God for His protection over former President Trump. My prayers go out to the families of the others that were directly impacted. Thanks to the law enforcement for their intervention to keep from further shots being fired.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with President Trump, his family and those around him,” wrote Governor Mike Dunleavy on his social media, adding, “This is not how we settle our differences and I hope law enforcement brings those responsible to justice soon. I join millions of my fellow Americans who hope the President makes a speedy recovery.”

Senator Lisa Murkowski wrote that the events in Pennsylvania were horrifying.

“This is the United States of America: there is no place for violence in politics. We are all praying for the health and safety of former President Trump, the family of the bystander who was killed, and everyone who was at the rally.”

Senator Dan Sullivan released the following statement after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump today at a rally in Pennsylvania.

“I am incredibly relieved that President Trump is safe after a cowardly attempted assassination earlier today in Pennsylvania. Julie and I are praying for President Trump and his family and are hoping for a speedy recovery. He exhibited incredible courage today. Our hearts and prayers also go out to the family of the rally attendee who was tragically killed in this attack, and any others who were injured at the rally. Political violence is abhorrent and has absolutely no place in our country. We are all Americans. We are all grateful for the courageous Secret Service and law enforcement members who quickly responded to engage the shooter and get President Trump out of harm’s way.”

The thoughts and reactions reached across both sides of the aisle, as Representative Mary Peltola also issued a statement saying that America is above this.

“This is an assassination attempt plain and simple. America is better than this. My thoughts are with President Trump and his family, and all at the rally.”