Columbus and other officials react to assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Columbus and other area officials reacted to the assassination attempt during a rally Saturday for former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, north of Pittsburgh.

The FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa.

Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther is in Milwaukee where the Republican National Convention is to begin on Monday. Ginther, a Democrat, is there in his capacity as the newly elected president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, his spokesperson Melanie Crabill said on Sunday.

In an emailed statement, Ginther said, "Political violence undermines democratic principles and civil discourse. A peaceful and democratic society depends on the rejection and prevention of political violence in all its forms. We must all work to foster a safe place for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas.”

In an interview Sunday with WOSU, Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein said that political violence has no place in America regardless of who the candidate is.

"That's a full stop. That's not who we are as Americans. That's not what the system is all about," he said.

"We can turn more toward unity as Americans and fight over issues but do in in a way that's peaceful and emblematic of the American system."

Other area officials also posted reactions on social media:

Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin

"Democracy is built on dialogue, debate and a peaceful exchange of ideas. Political violence in any form and from any corner cannot be allowed to become acceptable. Everyone should be free to participate in the political process safely, and free from fear and intimidation — and that includes candidates of any party who put themselves forward to serve the public."

U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Jefferson Township)

"Violence of any kind is unacceptable. We cannot allow it in our political discourse or our democracy. I was pleased that law enforcement responded quickly. My thoughts are with all impacted by this incident and I wish former President Trump a quick recovery."

U.S. Rep. Mike Carey (R-Columbus)

"Closely monitoring this situation as it develops and praying for President Trump."

U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson (R-Zanesville)

"Glad to hear President Trump is safe. Please pray for all victims involved and their families. Thank you to the Secret Service and law enforcement for your quick and fearless response."

State Rep. Allison Russo (D-Columbus)

"Political violence has no place whatsoever in our democracy. My thoughts are with former President Trump, his family, and the victims of today’s senseless attack. Grateful for the bravery & quick response of the Secret Service and law enforcement."

Former Republican presidental candidate and central Ohio entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy

Jeff Simpson, former Columbus police union president who attended the rally

"Not what I expected to see at the rally today. A dark day in history for all Americans. God bless #45 & God bless the peace makers."

Ohio's two U.S. senators also had this to say:

Republican Sen. J.D. Vance

"Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown

"Connie and I are relieved that President Trump is safe and are praying for the health and safety of those attending the rally tonight, and for our country."

Bernie Moreno (Brown's Republican opponent this fall)

"President Donald J Trump is an American Legend and we need him now more than ever."