Officials across Ocala and Marion County condemned yesterday’s assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, labeling it a “senseless act of violence” and offering prayers for the soon-to-be 2024 Republican Presidential Nominee.
On Saturday evening, officials across the area shared brief messages through social media in light of a shooting that took place that afternoon at a rally for the former president in Butler, Pennsylvania.
“I condemn every act of violence that comes against President Donald Trump. I trust God with our future and truly believe nothing can stop what God has ordained,” reads a post from Marion County Board of County Commissioners Chair Michelle Stone.
In 2020, Stone was one of several local officials who greeted the president during a stop in Ocala.
“For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. – Psalm 91:11,” said Stone in her post to social media.
Stone’s fellow commissioner, Matt McClain, also offered a brief statement in light of the events.
“Prayers for President Trump. God help our country,” reads a post to social media from the commissioner.
Ocala City Council member Kristen Dreyer posted a similar statement.
“Praying for President Trump, for the victims of today’s senseless violence, and for our Country as a whole,” reads the statement from Dreyer.
According to multiple media reports, Saturday’s shooting claimed the life of at least one individual and left another in critical condition. The shooter, who has since been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed after firing multiple shots at Trump while he was giving a speech.
“Trump has been through hell and back. He has been impeached, he has been arrested, he has been convicted, and now, he has survived an assassination attempt,” reads a statement posted by United States Representative Kat Cammack.
Cammack posted a photo of Trump with an outstretched fist, saying the president is “America Strong.”
“Prayers for President Trump and our nation. We will keep fighting and we will win,” reads the statement from the representative.