Lawmakers react to shooting at Trump rally

SHREVEPORT, La. ( KTAL/KMSS ) – Area lawmakers are reacting to the news that a gunman fired shots at former President Donald Trump’s rally Saturday in Pennsylvania.

The attack, by a shooter who law enforcement officials say was then killed by the Secret Service, was the first attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.

At least one spectator was fatally wounded, and two others are in critical condition. The suspected gunman is also believed to have been killed by Secret Service members.

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy released a video statement on X calling for a thorough investigation of the shooting, questioning whether others were involved.

Watch Cassidy’s full statement in video player below.

Louisiana’s Legislative Leadership responded to the news with the following statement:

“We, as leaders of the Louisiana Legislature, stand together in strong condemnation of the recent act of violence against President Trump. This attack is not just an act of cowardice; it is a grave affront to the democratic principles that form the bedrock of our nation. Such despicable actions must be met with unwavering condemnation and swift justice.

In this difficult time, we unite in our prayers for President Trump and his family. We hope they find strength and solace amidst this adversity.

Biden ‘grateful’ Trump safe after apparent shooting: ‘No place for this kind of violence’

Moreover, we extend our prayer to the United States of America, wishing for out nation to emerge from this dark moment stronger and more resilient. It is our shared values of democracy, justice, and peace that will shoous through. Let us not succumb to fear but instead come together in solidarity and resolve to ensure that such acts of violence never tear apart the fabric of our great nation.

God bless Louisiana and the United States of America

Louisiana Legislative Leadership

Candidate for Louisiana’s Sixth District Quentin Anderson said, “Violence has no place in our politics,” and said he unequivocally and forcefully condemned the “heinous” act.

The Democratic Party of Arkansas also released a statement,

“The Democratic Party of Arkansas condemns political violence. What happened in Pennsylvania is far too common in communities around our communities around our county. Our prayers are with everyone victimized today, including the former president.”

Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux released a statement Sunday encouraging Americans to come together.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims of the senseless shooting yesterday evening. Our country should embrace love over hate and unity over division. There is no place for political violence in our country.”

Louisiana State Representative Danny McCormick said the shooting is “a stark reminder of the dangerous times we live in” and called on the country to pray for Trump, his family, and the safety and security of our nation.

“This is horrific & wrong & evil. Thank God he appears not to be seriously injured. Heidi & I are lifting President Trump up in prayer right now,” said U.S. Senator for Texas, Ted Cruz.

Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn condemned the violence and thanked the first responders for their quick action and bravery.

Regardless of political differences, violence has no place in our society. In the wake of yesterday’s violent incident, I’m grateful that former President Trump is safe. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the men and women who worked tirelessly to ensure his protection and the first responders who acted quickly during a time of crisis.

We must acknowledge the tragic loss of life, and my thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. May we find the courage to stand against violence and uphold the values of peace, respect, and compassion.

Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn

U.S. Representative for the 1st District of Texas, Congressman Nathaniel Moran, called the shooting a horrific act and said he is praying for the former president, his family, and the country.

Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson said Congress will conduct an investigation into the shooting.

This is a horrific act of political violence. It ought to be roundly condemned. Obviously, we can’t go on like this as a society. You know, our prayers are with President Trump, all the rally attendees, certainly the family of the individual that lost their life and those who were injured.

We have gotten briefings from law enforcement. I spoke to Secretary Mayorkas last night and asked him some pointed questions with regard to homeland security and what happened there. I’ve already announced that Congress will do a full investigation of the tragedy yesterday to determine where there were lapses in security and anything else that the American people need to know and deserve to know.”

Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson

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