Area representatives react to assassination attempt on former President Trump

A 20-year-old Pennsylvania man was suspected to have been the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump on Saturday, firing several shots and killing at least one spectator, according to representatives of federal and local law enforcement agencies.

The FBI early on Sunday identified the suspect, who was killed at the scene, as Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pa.

Area political representatives from Illinois and Missouri reacted to the assassination attempt.

Congressman Sam Graves (R-Mo. 6):

“Thank God President Trump is safe. I’m continuing to pray for President Trump, the innocent Americans killed and injured at today’s rally, and our country. May God bless America.”

Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-Ill. 15):

“We pray for God’s grace over our nation after today’s assassination attempt on President Trump. I am heartbroken to hear an attendee was killed. President Trump, covered in blood, fist in the air, showed the strength and resilience that has defined him his entire life. 1 Timothy 2”

Illinois State Senator Jil Tracy (R-Quincy):

“The reports and images of shots fired at a Trump rally north of Pittsburgh are terribly disturbing. We are grateful that Donald Trump has survived what could have been a horrific outcome but for the quick action of the Secret Service. As this situation unfolds, we need to pray for the Lord’s healing grace in the face of such violence that has resulted in injuries and the loss of lives. Our thoughts are with everyone who was at the rally in Pennsylvania.”

Illinois State Senator Neil Anderson (R-Andalusia):

“I am deeply thankful that God was looking after former President Donald Trump today. I want to offer my condolences to the victims and their families, and I want to offer my support and gratitude to the men and women who protect our dignitaries day in and day out. We must continue to stand strong for what we believe in as Americans.”

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.):

“Political violence is never acceptable. I’m keeping the former president, the bystander who was tragically killed, and all who were injured or whose safety was threatened in my thoughts. Sending my deepest thanks to law enforcement for helping keep those in attendance safe.”

U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.):

“There is absolutely no excuse—and no place whatsoever—for violence in American politics, and those responsible for this must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I am keeping Donald Trump in my thoughts and hoping he has a swift and full recovery.”

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.):

“Pray for President Trump. And for justice … Pray for the victims of this violence … It’s a wonder Donald Trump is alive. Let’s call this what it was. An assassination attempt with at least one innocent bystander murdered. The nation needs to know who did this. And why. And we need a full, public investigation by Congress into HOW it happened.”

U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.):

“I’m praying for President Trump and everyone who was in attendance at the rally, including the family and loved ones of the innocent attendee that was reportedly shot and killed. It is an absolutely horrific scene in Pennsylvania. Secret Service should be applauded for their quick response and bravery in the face of danger. God bless President Trump and God bless the United States of America.”

Governor JB Pritzker (D-Ill.):

“Violence is never the answer in our democracy. I am closely monitoring the situation and praying for former President Trump’s recovery. Thankful to the Secret Service for their quick response.”

Governor Mike Parson (R-Mo.):

“Please join Teresa and me in praying for President Trump, his family, and all victims who were in attendance at the rally in Pennsylvania today. Please pray for our nation.”