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YCSO Sheriff talks AZ campaign, rally safety after Trump assassination attempt

ABC15 spoke with Yavapai County Sheriff David Rose about the assassination attempt and what to expect regarding the upcoming election, campaign security and future rallies.

“It's hard to know for sure. I mean, we don't know everybody's motives. I think it's probably the same everywhere and the potential for political violence is probably the same everywhere,” Rose said.

We also asked Rose if law enforcement plans to do anything differently in the wake of Saturday's shooting, with a statewide law enforcement summit being held in Flagstaff on Tuesday.

“We'll have sheriffs, police chiefs and law enforcement leaders from around the state coming together, so a big topic, a very big topic, is going to be how to coordinate safety and security for these events that are coming up,” Rose said.

Rose said he plans to encourage political events to be held indoors if possible.

Governor Katie Hobbs spoke out for the first time about the assassination attempt on former President Trump.

“The assassination attempt on former President Trump was a horrific act. I am glad he is safe, but my heart breaks for those who were injured and killed,” Hobbs said.

Hobbs, speaking at a pro-worker event in Phoenix on Monday, said political violence has no place in the country.

“We need to come together and stop fueling this kind of rhetoric and using this kind of rhetoric. People should not resort to violence to resolve political differences,” Hobbs said.

Hobbs says with political violence at the forefront right now, she's in constant contact with law enforcement about potential threats in the state. Political divisions shouldn't divide us, she says.

“We need to come together and remember that we are neighbors, friends and Americans bound together by our love of country,” Hobbs said.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office also said it remains on high alert following the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump over the weekend.

The force released a statement about the recent incidents on Sunday, saying it would remain vigilant and investigate any possible threats.

MCSO Sheriff Russ Skinner I said it with X:

“The violence at Donald Trump's rally yesterday was absolutely shocking and intolerable. It's a stark reminder that no matter what your politics or views are, violence has no place here. It's also a reminder to be aware of your surroundings, remain vigilant, and speak up if you see something.”

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office has zero tolerance for criminal activity. While the incident in Pennsylvania does not directly impact current election security in Maricopa County, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office remains vigilant and ready to protect our employees and our community. Please be assured that our security plans are robust and we are actively monitoring and evaluating any potential threats. While there have been no reported threats to Maricopa County as a result of this incident, our office remains vigilant.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of those who lost their lives, those deeply affected by this incident, and former President Trump.”

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