NC leaders respond to shooting at Donald Trump's Pennsylvania rally

Shortly after reports of a shooting at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania, North Carolina political leaders took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their concerns and offer prayers for the former president.

Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage after apparent gunshots rang out as he spoke to supporters at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. He appeared to have blood on his face, but was quickly confirmed to be "fine."

Rep. Chuck Edwards, Republican Congressman for the 11th District of North Carolina, posted on X: "Prayers are with President Trump and everyone at the rally."He later posted on his Facebook page: "Prayers are with President Trump, everyone at the rally, and the family of the shooter."

N.C. State Rep. Caleb Rudow, the Democrat running to represent the 11th District against Edwards, told the Citizen Times July 13 that news of the shooting was "terrible," and that campaigns should be focused on civil discussion and getting messages out peacefully.

"Resorting to violence is the most terrible thing that can happen and has no place in the political sphere," Rudow said. "It's terrible to see any candididate for any office endure this kind of assault."

Gov. Roy Cooper posted: "Violence has no place in our politics or communities. I am grateful for the quick response by law enforcement today and hope former President Trump is not seriously injured."

Sen. Thom Tillis posted: "This was a heinous assassination attempt and thank God that President Trump is safe. Keep praying for those who were shot. Violence in our political system can never be tolerated." And earlier post from Tillis said: "Praying for President Trump and everyone at the PA rally."

Sen. Ted Budd posted: "Praying for President Trump and everyone at the Pennsylvania rally. Pray for our country."

Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who's running for governor, said he's praying for President Trump and his family. He also shared a video statement on the incident.

N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein, who's also running for governor, posted: "I am outraged by what happened tonight at President Trump’s rally. Political violence is abhorrent and has no place in America. I pray for his health and am grateful he was able to walk off the stage tonight. I appreciate the secret service and law enforcement for their immediate response. I am also praying for our deeply divided country. People should be able to have differing opinions without fear of violence or threats."

More: Donald Trump rushed from stage at rally after apparent gunshots; 1 person and shooter dead

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: NC leaders respond to shooting at Trump rally in Pennsylvania