Central Coast leaders react to assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- While investigators continue to look for answers following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, Central Coast leaders are calling for an end to violence.
Monterey Mayor Tyller Williamson is one of many local representatives voicing their concerns.
"This is a detestable act that had occurred," said Williamson. "I fear the repercussions of it and what it means for our community."
Other officials KION heard from said there's no place in America for this type of violence, no matter the disagreements people have with any political party.
The shooting happened at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. A firefighter was killed, while two other victims are expected to survive along with Trump.
The gunman in the attack was also killed.
"Politics and political discourse should be civil, pragmatic and stable in any situation," said Santa Cruz County Supervisor Felipe Hernandez. "It shouldn't get to the point where it gets radicalized to this type of violence."
Congressman Jimmy Panetta issued a statement after the shooting saying "I am closely monitoring the apparent attack in Pennsylvania on former President Donald Trump. His campaign states that he is safe and secure, and I am grateful for the Secret Service and first responders for their work to ensure his safety. We pray for the former president and any other victims of the apparent attack. As a nation, we must unequivocally reject all forms of political violence."
Both Williamson and Hernandez agreed spreading a message of unity at this time is important.
"We do live in California. We do live in a blue district. But at the end of the day, this isn't about red or blue or our political differences. This is about all of us coming together," said Williamson.
Hernandez said he was devastated after hearing about the assassination attempt on Trump.
"I want to make sure we work together as a country and community to overcome our differences to make our communities better and to make our country better," said Hernandez.
"I think if we can share kindness, respect and love for one another, I think that that's that's the medicine towards preventing a lot of these issues that we're seeing within our community," said Williamson.
President Biden shared during a press conference that he spoke briefly with Trump to wish him well as he recovers.
