Chairman Ager: Violent Political Rhetoric Must Stop

CONCORD, NH - NHGOP Chairman Chris Ager calls for end to violent and dehumanizing political rhetoric following assassination attempt on President Donald Trump and rash of threats in New Hampshire. He issued the following statement:

”There is no place for violence-laced rhetoric in our political discourse. While we all value the free speech guaranteed by our Constitution’s First Amendment, recent events remind us that unstable individuals can be influenced to take violent action by charged rhetoric. This cannot be tolerated by either side of the political spectrum,” Ager said

“There has also been an uptick in violence-filled correspondence targeted at our elected officials and offices. Most of this comes from frustrated individuals lashing out in the only way they know, but it only takes one troubled person to destroy lives. This is all wrong and must stop,” Ager continued.

“I call on everyone in the political universe to make the case for your party and candidates without the violent rhetoric. Make no mistake, however, we are prepared to defend ourselves if necessary.”

BACKGROUND
June 2024, a Dover man committed apparent suicide in the parking garage of Concord Hospital. He had been accused of threatening to kill three Republican presidential candidates. 

April 2024, a Concord resident vandalized cars at a GOP gathering and was later taken into custody when law enforcement searched his home and found weapons, a manifesto including death threats, and hostage-taking materials.

July 13th, a 20-year-old attempted an assassination of our Republican nominee for President. 

Last week, Representative Heidi Hamer (D-Manchester) made light of President Trump’s injury, referring to his ear bandage as a “maxi pad.” 

This week, On Franklin Highway in Andover, a sign reading “Die with GOP – Louise Andrus” is displayed on a lawn with severed limbs and skulls.