Washington, DC – With the campaign season in full swing, President Joe Biden’s reelection team is urging voters to reject violence as a means of political discourse, specifically targeting remarks made by his opponent, former President Donald Trump.
During a press conference at the Democratic National Committee building in Washington, DC, former U.S. Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell, District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Officer Daniel Hodges, and Biden-Harris Communications Director Michael Tyler spoke out against Trump’s rhetoric and behavior.
Tyler emphasized the importance of denouncing political violence, stating that it has no place in American democracy. He criticized Trump for using violent imagery in his campaign messaging, such as a recent social media post depicting Biden in a distressing manner.
The panel raised concerns about Trump’s campaign tactics, which they believe echo the divisive strategies that led to the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Gonell specifically criticized Trump for glorifying individuals involved in the attack, referring to them as “patriots” and “political prisoners.”
Hodges, who personally experienced violence at the hands of Trump supporters on January 6, condemned Trump for perpetuating a culture of political violence. He expressed frustration at Trump’s claims to support law enforcement while simultaneously inciting violence among his followers.
The group highlighted the importance of holding Trump accountable for his role in inciting the Capitol attack, pointing out the ongoing criminal investigations he faces. Despite Trump’s legal troubles, they warned against underestimating his influence and called on all Americans to consider the implications of his rhetoric.
Gonell emphasized the need for a strong commitment to upholding the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law, urging voters not to overlook Trump’s history of promoting violence for personal gain. He underscored the dangers of electing a leader who has shown a willingness to incite violence for political purposes.
As the election season progresses, the Biden campaign and its supporters are determined to push back against the normalization of political violence and ensure that this year’s election remains focused on policy and democratic principles. The message is clear: violence has no place in American politics.