Nebraskans react to shooting at Trump’s Pennsylvania rally

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - In the wake of gunfire at former President Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania Saturday, several Omaha residents told 6 News they found it upsetting.

“I hear people—some people who are kind of out there—say they want to kill Trump,” Trevor Boggs said. “But it’s kind of surprising that somebody actually tried. So yeah, I’m just kind of shocked.”

Others were not so awestruck.

“There’s been so much politicized violence in our country that I’m not surprised that this happened,” Maureen Francois said.

It didn’t take long after the shooting for local political figures to shared their reactions.

Gov. Jim Pillen issued a statement Saturday evening saying:

“This was a terrible incident and a shocking moment for our democracy. Suzanne and I are gratified that President Trump is reported to be okay, but we are deeply saddened to hear that one attendee was killed and at least one other has been injured. All politically motivated violence is to be condemned, no matter what form or what situation. I commend President Trump for his immediate display of strength following the attempted assassination and I hope he will soon be back in front of the American people. I call on all Nebraskans to offer their prayers for those impacted by today’s events and for our collective peace as a Nation.”

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said much the same, stating:

“In Pennsylvania today, we saw the consequence of the anger, intolerance and division in our country. Thankfully, former President Trump is apparently safe and well, but an innocent person has died and so many others who personally witnessed this attack have been traumatized. My prayers are with him, and all the families impacted.

Every American should be outraged over this violent attack on individuals and our nation’s political process, and pledge to have greater acceptance of others with different beliefs and opinions. Everyone, including all candidates for public office must be able to freely, and safely express their views.”

Those on the other side of the aisle echoed that sentiment.

In a statement, Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb said:

“The Nebraska Democratic Party condemns all political violence. We are grateful to the secret service and law enforcement for protecting former president trump and getting him to safety. We hope all rally-goers are on their way home to their loved ones.”

And State Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha tweeted, “There is no place for violence in our politics and I strongly condemn all acts of violence against anyone, regardless of their political party. I am glad to hear that President Trump is ok and thank our law enforcement for their quick action.”

Saturday’s shooting left some pondering the political climate in this country.

“People need to learn how to agree to disagree or respectfully disagree,” Francois said. “The fact that we’re not teaching our kids how to professionally or respectfully disagree with someone, I think that has made violence a lot worse in America.”

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