NEW YORK AND PENNSYLVANIA — Elected officials from New York and Pennsylvania universally condemned political violence after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally Saturday in Butler, PA, which is located in the western part of the state.

U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-PA-8), who represents Wayne, Pike, Lackawanna and portions of Luzerne and Monroe counties, said in a statement, “As a nation, we must stand together and condemn this heinous act of violence that undermines our democracy. We are grateful that former President Trump was not seriously injured and thank Secret Service and first responders for their rapid and brave response. My deepest condolences go out to all the innocent victims, and their families, who were killed or injured at today’s rally.”

U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) wrote, “I’m in disbelief and praying for President Trump, law enforcement and those attending the rally. In the United States, our elections are decided by voters, not violence.” Molinaro represents Sullivan, Broome, Chenango, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Greene, Tioga and Tompkins counties as well as parts of Otsego and Ulster counties.

PA State Rep. Jeff Olsommer (R-139) wrote, “Prayers for President Trump and the families involved in the shooting tonight in Butler. Gratitude to the law enforcement for their swift and heroic actions.” Olsommer represents most of Sullivan County and a portion of Orange County.

U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York (D) wrote, “I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.”

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York (D) wrote, “My thoughts are with former President Trump and all of those affected by this horrible act, and I’m grateful to law enforcement for their swift response. Political violence is completely unacceptable and has no place in American democracy.”

U.S. Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania (D) wrote, “I am appalled and condemn in the strongest terms this violence in Butler. I extend my condolences to those injured and wish a speedy and full recovery for Mr. Trump.”

NY Sen. Peter Oberacker (R-51) wrote, “Tonight my thoughts are with President Donald Trump and his family as we continue to learn more about the assassination attempt on his life. While I’m saddened by what transpired, I also stand resolute that we will not and cannot be intimidated by those who choose to use violence to silence our views and values.

“We pray for President Donald Trump; we pray for the other victims of today’s acts of violence; and we pray for our Nation. As we move forward, I am confident we will not be intimidated and we will not be deterred.”