Rep. McNally Condemns Political Violence at Canfield Fair

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today released the following statement condemning the violent actions of an individual at the Canfield Fair:

“Sunday started as one of those wonderful fair days that our family looks forward to every year. My kids performed their annual show at the International Tent, and I was so proud to be there watching them. But what began as a beautiful day quickly turned frightening when an armed and dangerous man attacked the Mahoning County Democratic Party tent, apparently intending to harm people. He was quickly apprehended by law enforcement, and a gun and other weapons were recovered. Several attendees sustained minor injuries. The attack happened while Dr. Acton was visiting the tent.

I am incredibly grateful my kids were not with me at that moment. But I keep thinking about how wrong it is that any parent should have to wonder whether bringing their children to a community event could put them in danger because of political violence. We can disagree with one another. We can argue passionately about our politics. We can campaign, debate and fight for the things we believe in. That is democracy. But there is no place for violence, intimidation, or weapons in our political discourse. Today was a painful reminder that this isn’t just about politics. These are our neighbors. Our friends. Our families. People who came to the fair to enjoy a beautiful day together.

I know Ohio is better than this. Our community is better than this. We cannot allow political violence to become normal. We have to reject it—every single time, no matter who it is directed at or what side of the political aisle someone is on. Today, I am grateful for the quick response of law enforcement and, most of all, that my family is safe. But I also hope we can all take a step back and remember that there are real people on the other side of every political disagreement. We have to do better. We have to be better. And political violence has to stop.”