'We must all come together as Americans': Knoxville officials react to Trump shooting
Allie FeinbergTennessee lawmakers and Knoxville leaders shared their thoughts in the hours after former President Donald Trump was shot at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.
Here's what elected officials are saying.
U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty
U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty commended Trump's strength.
U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn
U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn called on President Joe Biden to address the nation.
Congressman Tim Burchett
U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett, who represents Tennessee's 2nd District, called for prayers for Trump. He also issued a cautionary message.
"God has his hand upon America. Let's not slap it away," Burchett wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Congressman Chuck Fleischmann
U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, who represents Tennessee's 3rd District, drew from personal experience.
"As someone who has experienced politically motivated violence myself, I will always say loudly and clearly that there is no place for political violence in America. We must come togehter as Americans," Fleischmann wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger
Rep. Diana Harshbarger, who represents Tennessee's 1st District, turned to religion.
"President Trump, by the grace of God, has survived this vile attempt on his life. He is truly a once in a generation leader and I will continue to pray, knowing that God will be watching out for him always," she said in a release. "As Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.'"
State Rep. Gloria Johnson
State Rep. Gloria Johnson, who represents parts of downtown Knoxville, thanked the secret service.
Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon
Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon sent condolences to the families of those who died.
"I am horrified by the violence at a rally for President Trump and I'm thankful he appears to be OK. As a survivor of gun violence, I feel for all those who attended and am so sorry for the loss of innocent life. Violence is never the answer to political differences."
Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs
Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs cast blame on rhetoric.
"I can't help but believe this is the result of all the hateful, violent rhetoric directed at Donald Trump," Jacobs said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Nevertheless, Trump stands strong and I stand with him. We're going to take this country back and we will Make America Great Again no matter what comes."
Knox County Commissioner Larsen Jay
Knox County Commissioner At-Large Larsen Jay tweeted that violence can never be tolerated.
"I am thankful former President Trump is OK after the disgusting attack during a rally in Pennsylvania, and I am heartbroken and angry at the senseless loss of life we're now hearing about. Political violence should never be tolerated. Our country is better than this."
Allie Feinberg reports on politics for Knox News. Email her: allie.feinberg@knoxnews.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @alliefeinberg.
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