A few hours after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I was challenged by a MAGA acquaintance as to whether I was saddened by this event. Anyone who knows me well would be shocked by this inquiry. Those who know me would know that my sadness over political violence runs deep. I was cutting my political teeth when a president, presidential candidate, civil rights leaders and even college students were the victims of such violence in the 1960s.
More recently, I was overcome with grief on that day, Jan. 6, 2021, when an attempted coup led to the deaths and injuries of police officers who were trying to protect our democratic process. I was horrified when Paul Pelosi had his skull fractured in his home. I was relieved when the president escaped serious harm in Pennsylvania but saddened at the death of an innocent bystander. I grieved when Minnesota leaders were targeted, leading to the death of Melissa Hortman and her husband and the shooting of John Hoffman and his wife. And yes, I am saddened that a young man has now been taken from his friends and family because of his political beliefs.
What I will never understand is escalating hatred by casting a wide net on an entire political persuasion. My fellow Democrats take umbrage at being called “vermin,” “scum” or most recently “the enemy from within” by the current president. While there has always been spirited exchange between folks of opposing sides, I have never experienced such vitriol coming from such a high level of power. Past presidents on both sides of the aisle sought to defuse anger and discourage violence.
And so, I ask everyone to work with me to stop the hatred and violence. Let us all work together to promote spirited political debate. Let us encourage every American to become informed on the many issues challenging our nation. Encourage them to work for candidates who share their beliefs and even consider running themselves. Of course, we must all exercise our sacred right to vote. And finally, let us remember that violence is never the answer.
Corynne Courpas writes from Westminster.
