Donna Deegan, Jacksonville leaders react to Donald Trump shooting

Image via City of Jacksonville

Leaders from across the local political spectrum denounced Saturday’s attack on former President Donald Trump’s life in a rare show of unity amid a moment of national tragedy that could have been worse.

Though some statements showed partisanship, others, such as Jacksonville’s Mayor, urged calm and reflection.

“Political violence is indefensible and unacceptable in the United States of America. My prayers are with the former President and his family. Let’s gather ourselves in this moment and remember who we are,” Mayor Donna Deegan posted to X.

“Political violence is never acceptable, and as (the) Chair of the Duval Democrats, I condemn it in the strongest possible terms,” added Daniel Henry. “As we wait to learn more about (this) horrifying incident, I’m grateful for the swift action of law enforcement and pray for all those in attendance.”

Dean Black, Chair of the Duval County Republicans, added, “President Trump displayed his indomitable fighting spirit (Saturday) in the face of near tragedy. The security breach is unfathomable. My wife Kim and I will be at the Republican National Convention this week and will continue to keep him in our prayers. Onward to Milwaukee!”

The Duval GOP also holds the current President responsible.

“This moment is the consequence of the rhetoric from those who oppose him. Recently, Joe Biden said, ‘It’s time to put President Trump in the bull’s-eye.’ This is outrageous rhetoric,” the party claimed in a corollary statement. “Politics is divisive, and our disagreements have led to polarization across our Nation. However, those we disagree with are our co-workers, family members, and, most importantly, our Countrymen. We must learn to live with one another.”

“May the Lord Jesus Christ be with President Trump. Pray and then go to work to save our Republic,” added former Mayor Lenny Curry.

“Praying for President Trump’s swift recovery and for the family of (the) innocent victim,” asserted Republican Councilman Nick Howland. “Thankful, as always, for the rapid, direct, and professional response from our Secret Service and First Responders. They train for these scenarios, and we’re all safer for it.”

His colleague Rory Diamond posed a provocative rhetorical question: “And, ‘we’ are the threat to democracy … ?”

Democratic Council member Jimmy Peluso took a different tack.

“Political violence & this heightened sense of ‘hating the other side’ needs to end in this country. This isn’t who or what we are & we need to remind ourselves of that. I’m glad the former POTUS is safe, but an innocent bystander was also killed. Pray for them & our country.”

State Rep. Angie Nixon weighed in also.

“Our democracy should be free from violence. My thoughts and prayers are with the families that lost a loved one and all that have been impacted in (Saturday’s) shooting in Pennsylvania.”