Local politicians speak on Trump rally incident

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Political figures across the Rio Grande Valley are responding to the news after Former U.S. President Donald Trump was escorted off the stage of a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania due to gunshots.

Here are their reactions:

U.S. Representative Vicente Gonzalez told ValleyCentral, political violence is never the answer and we must unite against any violence.

"Thank you to the first responders and Secret Service for doing their job and maintaining order. I pray for former President Trump and our country," Gonzalez said.

Former U.S. Representative Mayra Flores said this cowardly act of political violence is despicable and evil. She added she is praying for the former president, his family and the country.

State Representative Janie Lopez stated, she is deeply troubled by the news of the shooting at former president Trump.

Hidalgo County GOP Chairman Robert Cantu told ValleyCentral the following, "We are saddened to see what transpired today to President Trump at his rally. We pray for the President and we pray for peace in the country. As a free people we should be able to discuss political ideas without resorting to violence."

McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos spoke with ValleyCentral and provided the following statement, "My thoughts are with former President Trump during this challenging time. It is crucial to emphasize that violence has no place in politics in our society. Political disagreements should be addressed through dialogue, healthy debate, and democratic processes, not through acts of aggression intended to cause harm."

The Secret Service has announced that Trump is "fine" after being whisked off the stage.