WASHINGTON (WTNH) -- State and national leaders have rushed to condemn political violence after Donald Trump appeared to be the target of an assassination attempt as he spoke during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, law enforcement officials said. The former president, his ear covered in blood from what he said was a gunshot, was quickly pulled away by Secret Service agents, and his campaign said he was “fine.”
"There is no room in America for political violence," Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) posted on X. "We should all condemn what happened today and I am hoping for the health of the former president and everyone else at the rally."
Gov. Ned. Lamont issued a similar statement before the Secret Service said one spectator was killed and two others were critically injured.
“Political violence and gun violence of any kind have absolutely no place in our society and are never acceptable," he said. "We must all as Americans be able to express our views freely and without the fear of violence. My thoughts are with former President Trump and everyone in attendance at today’s rally, and I am relieved that everyone appears to be safe. I also commend the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift action to protect everyone’s safety.”
Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) reiterated that message.
"My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today," DeLauro posted on X. "I commend the quick response of the Secret Service and other law enforcement officials on scene."
Rep. John B. Larson (D-Conn.) said in a written statement, “Thank God President Trump is safe and being treated."
“Our prayers and thoughts are with him, his family, and all those in attendance at the rally," Larson wrote. "We thank the Secret Service and law enforcement for acting quickly and condemn all forms of violence.”
Sen. Richard Blumenthal stressed in a written statement that "Political violence of any kind is unacceptable."
"I am thankful for law enforcement’s swift response," he wrote. "My thoughts are with former President Trump."
Congressman Jim Himes echoed Blumenthal's statement, saying, "Political violence is unacceptable and has no place in our society."
"Every American should be free and safe to express and share their views with civility," Himes wrote. "My thoughts are with the former President and all who were harmed at today’s rally."
The Connecticut GOP released a statement on Saturday evening.
"Today’s attempted assassination of former President Trump is tragic and sad," the party wrote. "Our prayers are with President Trump and his family. The actions of one deranged individual do not represent American values. We make change at the ballot box. All Americans, regardless of political affiliation or political philosophy, must condemn this heinous act and recommit to engaging in political discussion that will move our country forward in a nonviolent manner."
This is a developing situation, and updates will be added as they become available.