(WHTM) — Most thought it was a touching moment at the DNC when Tim Walz’s son Gus professed his love for his dad, but not one Pennsylvania lawmaker.

However, the sweetness turned sour on social media where some criticized the boy, and when Lebanon State Rep. Russ Diamond suggested that the boy’s dad should have shielded him by keeping him home, another firestorm ensued.

At the DNC, VP candidate Walz was speaking and his 17-year-old son Gus, who has a learning disability, was rejoicing. It was a sweet moment that went sour on social media with negative comments directed at the boy.

Many took offense to the comment and a war of words broke out. Rep. Diamond weighed in with this on X : “ATTN FELLOW POLITICOS: If a politician involves their family in ANY way related to a campaign, they will be subject to scorn and criticism. Not saying it’s right; it’s just reality. Choose wisely.”

Diamond went on to suggest maybe Tim Walz should’ve left Gus home. A state lawmaker who has autism had some strong words for Diamond.

“I think it is absolutely and unequivocally just not acceptable to insinuate that folks with disabilities should be kept home just because of our disability,” State Rep. Jessica Benham said. “Instead of celebrating with our families these incredible moments.”

Benham is the first state rep to acknowledge her autism. She wasn’t the only one offended. Multiple posts harshly attacked Diamond accusing him of being insensitive. I asked him to clarify the point he was trying to make. He texted that his message was for the father. In no way targeting the son.

“Public figures need to be extra careful about putting family members in the spotlight, especially minor children,” Diamond wrote in a text. “The world is an ugly place. When those family members are living with disabilities, the duty to protect them is magnified.”

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Benham, responding to that, said, “For someone to suggest that folks with disabilities are not capable of handling the emotional impact of being bullied, unacceptable and also just ignorant. We deal with bullies every day. We’re good at it.”

How bitter and partisan are we? Well, even beautiful moments can spark expletive-filled exchanges on social media.

But, will this make things awkward when Democrats encounter Diamond at the capitol?

“Look, he’s basically never spoken to me before in person anyway,” Benham said. “So why would this be any different?”

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