Last Saturday an assassination attempt on Donald Trump was made. I was glad to hear that he was not seriously injured or killed for his sake and the sake of the possible chaos that may have ensued if there had been a different outcome. It is a tragedy that there was a victim and other injuries.
As has been mentioned numerous times by multiple people on all sides of aisle. Political violence of all kinds is unacceptable in the United States. Within the last 8 or so years we have seen riots in the streets, an attack on the seat of the U.S. legislature and an attempt to murder a presidential candidate. We have not seen an atmosphere like this since the 60s and early 70s.
Political violence is not the answer in this country. There will definitely be strong debate about which direction to take the country, about issues and candidates. However the process of this democracy, this republic, requires resolution of those things by elections, by legislation and by the rule of law and its proper exercise.
The key and central characteristic of this republic (or any democracy) is the maintenance of freedom without the law of the animals or rule by brute force. Political violence is one such attempt to rule by force. To change the country by such an act flies in the face of the very fundamental notion of democracy and its function. No one can expect to be safe if any such acts become the standard for change by those who are violent and unstable.
We can expect increased and changing security as a result of Saturday’s event, as we should. Along with continued investigations of the shooter and the nature of security Saturday. The current political atmosphere, which is creating excessive tension even among the most stable of us, must be toned down as well. Individuals on both sides are doing it (not just one). There will still be vigorous debate and campaigning, but understanding, both of our processes and our common values found in the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and our historical accomplishments will lead us to positive action.