North Carolina political leaders and congressional delegation condemn assassination attempt on former President Trump

North Carolina political leaders from both parties are condemning the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper said political violence has no place in the United States, and Attorney General Josh Stein, who is running to replace Cooper, said people should be able to express opinions without fear of violence.

Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who is also running for governor, said violence has no place in political discourse and that people should stand together at least on that point.

Several members of the state’s congressional delegation are calling for accountability and further investigation following the attempted murder.

Republican Sen. Ted Budd blamed the shooting on what he called hysterical and inflammatory rhetoric directed at President Trump, and said “anti-American political violence” must end.

Republican Sen. Thom Tillis called the Pennsylvania rally shooting a heinous assassination attempt and said violence in our political system can never be tolerated.

Rep. Greg Murphy called Saturday a grave day in American history and said he was grateful Trump was able to walk away from the scene; he also thanked law enforcement for their swift action.

Democratic Congressman Don Davis said political violence is never acceptable under any circumstances.