By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Guam leaders today joined the nation in condemning the shooting at former president Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania.
“There is no room for violence in politics–no matter where you stand on the issues. Cowardly acts such as this undermine the foundation of our democracy,” according to statement issued by the Office of the Governor.
“On behalf of the people of Guam, we wish the former president and those injured at the rally a speedy recovery. We also send our condolences to the family of the innocent bystander killed by this senseless act of cowardice and violence.
“We commend the swift and heroic acts taken by the U.S. Secret Service, the first responders, and the local law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of former President Trump,” Adelup said.
Trump was shot at during a rally in Pennsylvania, with Secret Service agents rushing on stage after a series of gunshots to bundle the former president into a waiting vehicle.
In a statement on his Truth Social account on Facebook, Trump said he was hit with a bullet that pierced the upper part of his right ear.
"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening," he wrote.
"I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania," Trump wrote on his social media post.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said he was relieved that Trump "is safe."
"The entire Department of Defense condemns this violence, which has absolutely no place in our democracy. This is not the way that we resolve our differences in America — and it must never be," he said.
The Republican Party of Guam expressed concerns with “what we and Americans around the world witnessed in Butler, Pennsylvania.”
"There is no place for political violence in our country. We condemn the act against the former president. The party is hopeful that this incident will not deter him or other political candidates for public office both in the U.S. mainland and here in Guam for standing up for the greater good of our collective American communities,” the Guam Republicans said.
The Democratic Party of Guam said it “strongly condemns the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and political violence in any form. We are relieved to hear that former President Trump is safe and well.”
“We extend our sincere condolences and prayers to the family of the innocent person whose life was reportedly taken by the shooter, and we are grateful for the swift action of federal and local law enforcement. The Democratic Party of Guam stands united in calling for peace and unity for our nation,” the Guam Democrats said in a statement.
Guam Sen. William A. Parkinson said any form of political violence "is unacceptable, undemocratic and should be condemned to the highest degree."
“Our democracy thrives when we engage in constructive dialogue and uphold the values of tolerance and inclusivity,” Parkinson said.
“Much of the democratic process depends on open dialogue, debate, and peaceful engagement that aim to move our nation forward. No one deserves to be punished for speaking their political views, nor should anyone feel unsafe for speaking their mind. Political violence of any kind is absolutely unacceptable," he added.
In Honolulu, U.S. Rep. Ed Case said, “Violence must not be the answer. Voters, not guns, must decide elections.”
“Our hearts go out to the innocent lost and we pray for President Trump and the others wounded,” he added.
In his remarks from Delaware, President Joe Biden said that “there’s no place in America for this kind of violence. It’s sick, adding: “We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.”
Trump extended his condolences to the family of a political supporter at the rally who was killed, and the family of another person who was badly injured.
The man suspected of shooting at Trump was shot dead. The FBI identified the alleged assassin as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, reportedly a registered Republican.
"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead." Trump said.
The FBI said the incident is being classified as an assassination attempt.
Condemning the violence at Trump's rally, the government of the Federated States of Micronesia said the Pacific island nation stands with the American people at this time.
"The FSM condemns violence in any form and firmly believes in the right to peaceable assembly Our thoughts and prayers are with (former) President Trump for his safety and recovery as well as those who were injured and lost their lives," the FSM government said in a statement.
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