Harris ‘deeply disturbed’ by possible assassination attempt: ‘I condemn political violence’

Vice President Kamala Harris on Sunday condemned political violence and said she was “deeply disturbed” by the possible assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump.

“As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more violence,” Harris said in a statement, issued from the vice president’s office.

Harris’ response comes hours after local authorities said Secret Service agents protecting Trump opened fire on a suspect who had an AK-style rifle with a scope near the property line of where the former president was playing golf on one of his Florida courses in West Palm Beach. Federal authorities are investigating the incident as an attempted assassination , the second attempt on the former president’s life in roughly two months.

“I am thankful that former President Trump is safe. I commend the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement partners for their vigilance. As President Biden said, our Administration will ensure the Secret Service has every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to carry out its critical mission,” Harris said in her statement.

Both Harris and President Joe Biden were briefed on the incident at Trump International Golf Course earlier Sunday, and the president noted in his statement that a suspect is in custody.

“I am relieved that the former President is unharmed. There is an active investigation into this incident as law enforcement gathers more details about what happened. As I have said many times, there is no place for political violence or for any violence ever in our country, and I have directed my team to continue to ensure that Secret Service has every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure the former President’s continued safety,” Biden said.