West Michigan reacts to Trump assassination attempt

OLIVE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — Nearly 500 miles away in Pennsylvania Saturday, former President Donald Trump was shot while giving a speech to supporters.

The solemn day across the country was certainly felt in Grand Rapids. Whether it was at Gerald R. Ford’s wreath-laying ceremony or out at the lakeshore, where Ottawa County Democrats gathered for a luncheon.

“We should be able to hear each other’s points of view, and then be able to make our own decision at the ballot box. Not have decisions made for us by people who are willing to cause harm,” said Holland resident Margo Walters.

Lawmakers were adamant that the violent rhetoric and actions are unacceptable.

“This is a traumatic event. Our thoughts and prayers are with the former president, the victims and all who were there to witness this horrific violence,” U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, said.

“What I’m worried about is the division in this country. The pitting of us against each other. Our strength comes from ‘United we stand, divided we fall,’” U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, said.

Others seemed to think it was only a matter of time.

“Well I was kind of shocked in a way, but I’m not really shocked because he’s called for violence. This time it was against him,” said Michael Youngstrom.

A call for unity continues to grow louder on both sides of the political aisle.

“My good friends are people I work with across the aisle. We have different life experiences, we bring different perspectives, but we love this country and we have to make sure we don’t destroy it,” said Dingell.

Moving forward, many agree that the events of yesterday will loom large over the upcoming election.

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