Local leaders react to Trump assassination attempt

The attempted assassination Saturday, July 13, of former President Donald Trump left many people in shock. Here are what some local, state and national leaders had to say about the incident:

Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis: “After the despicable events of today, we are more determined than ever to support Donald J. Trump for President. We are on our way to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to serve as a delegate to officially cast Tennessee’s vote for OUR President. It is an honor to support President Trump and to help save our country.” Via Facebook.

Cocke County Sheriff C.J. Ball: “Unbelievable and unfortunate that we had an assassination attempt on a former president and a nominee running for president. Prayers for former president Donald Trump and for the families that lost a family member today during the rally and the ones injured. Outstanding response by the United States Secret Service and law enforcement that took quick action to cover and protect the president and neutralize the threat that was posed to the people at this rally. We cannot accept the actions taken by these individuals today.” Via Facebook.

Cocke County Legislative Body (CLB) Commissioner Wilma Ball: ”It was a very sad day for America. Unfortunately many of the younger generation have no respect for anyone or anything. They aren’t taught the importance of voting. They don’t understand what our country is about. I can’t imagine trying to take a life when I was only 20 years old.”

CLB Commissioner Dan “Pete” Bright: “It doesn’t add up. How someone was able to get that close and fire shots was alarming. Why not find him before he pulled the trigger? Dead men tell no tales.”

CLB Commissioner Jason McMahan: “It is sad that our country stooped to the level it is today. Hopefully, this will be a wakeup call to come together to unite and stop all the fighting.”

US Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “President Trump, by the grace of God, has survived this vile attempt on his life. He is truly a once in a generation leader and I will continue to pray, knowing that God will be watching out for him always.”

State Rep. Jeremy Faison: “The party of ‘tolerance, equity, and inclusion’ is responsible for an attempted assassination on a Presidential candidate. THIS is what’s on the ballot this November. Do you want to live in a world where you may get shot for your beliefs, or one that puts our country first and unifies us?”